A one-of-one residence occupying the upper reaches of a historic Gothic Revival church, the Bell Tower Penthouse at The Sanctuary represents an extraordinary offering in the heart of Capitol Hill. Soaring 33-foot ceilings, monumental stained glass, and a privately accessed bell tower establish a scale and presence seldom encountered in condominium living. Spanning more than 2,000 square feet, the multilevel residence offers two bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and a powder room within an exceptional historic setting.
Originally constructed in 1897–1898 as Ninth Street Christian Church, the building was designed by Lawrence B. Valk and Son. Its conversion into The Sanctuary by Bonstra | Haresign Architects was completed in 2016, preserving historic brickwork, structural elements, and painstakingly restored stained glass. Eight awards recognizing architecture, preservation, and development distinguish the project.
The dining room introduces the main living level, opening into a dramatic living room beneath ceilings rising 33 feet overhead. Hardwood floors extend throughout, complemented by exposed brick and abundant natural light. The space is anchored by a 15-foot stained-glass window, preserved at its full height and uninterrupted by an intervening floor. Intricate glasswork incorporates Alpha and Omega symbols, retaining a direct connection to the building’s ecclesiastical origins. Changing daylight illuminates the composition, revealing different colors and details as one moves between levels.
Directly connected to the living room, the kitchen serves as both a functional workspace and a central gathering area. White cabinetry and expansive counter surfaces frame an island with integrated seating. Sub-Zero refrigeration and a six-burner Wolf range anchor the professional appliance package. The open arrangement facilitates entertaining while maintaining clear distinctions between cooking, dining, and lounging areas. A guest powder room is discreetly tucked near the entrance.
Two stained-glass windows distinguish the primary bedroom, introducing filtered natural light and architectural detail rarely found in a private sleeping space. The adjoining primary bath is clad in marble and appointed with a double vanity and an oversized glass-enclosed shower. On the second floor, an additional bedroom features French doors opening to an interior Juliet balcony, framing views of the stained glass and living room below. A marble full bathroom with a tub serves the level. An adjacent loft accommodates an office and sitting area, where circular stained-glass windows create a distinctive backdrop for working or reading.
A private staircase continues to the home’s signature amenity: the converted bell tower. The approximately 85-foot tower houses an intimate retreat with unobstructed, 360-degree views across Washington. The U.S. Capitol and Washington Monument are both visible, an uncommon combination that becomes particularly striking after dark. Operable windows and a dedicated air-conditioning system enhance the usability of this exceptional space.
In-unit laundry and two tandem parking spaces provide everyday convenience. Situated within the Capitol Hill Historic District, the Bell Tower Penthouse combines significant architectural provenance with contemporary appointments and a commanding perspective on the capital. Its uninterrupted stained glass, extraordinary interior volume, and private tower place it in a category of its own, presenting a compelling opportunity to acquire a collector’s residence in one of Washington’s most established neighborhoods.
