Welcome to Kalorama
Kalorama, translated from the Greek as “beautiful view,” is bordered by Connecticut Avenue, Rock Creek Park, Massachusetts Avenue, and Florida Avenue. It was situated outside of Pierre L’Enfant’s original plan for the capital city and was primarily rural until the end of the 19th century. In 1893, Congress enacted legislation providing that L’Enfant’s design of the city be extended to include the rest of the District of Columbia, which would now include present-day Kalorama. Existing developments were exempted from the city’s street grid which is why Kalorama is one of few neighborhoods in the city having a unique plan. Kalorama is known for single-family houses with substantial lots, including many embassy chanceries and their residences. Architectural styles found here are predominantly Beaux Arts, Classical, and Mediterranean Revivals, known by their terra cotta tiled roofs and stucco-clad exteriors. Just steps from the heart of Kalorama are Mitchell Park, Rock Creek Park, and many fine shops and restaurants. Five former U.S. presidents, including Barack Obama, have resided in Kalorama.