A New Chapter for Whitewood Hall: Historic Lexington Home Renovation
With its sweeping front porch and location in downtown Lexington, Whitewood Hall has plenty of character. Built circa 1911, this stately American Foursquare sits just steps from local shops and restaurants, close to Washington and Lee University and Virginia Military Institute.
As our renovation nears completion, we’re excited to share how thoughtful changes have made this historic home more comfortable and functional while complementing its traditional details.
Here is what the space looked like before we began working.
Connecting the Kitchen, Dining Room, and Great Room
One of the biggest transformations began with removing a chimney. This allowed us to reconfigure the kitchen and great room, opening up views between the spaces and creating a more natural connection between cooking, dining, and relaxing.
We also widened the cased opening between the dining room and kitchen. Framed with substantial trim, the expanded opening complements the home’s architecture while making the rooms feel more connected. Someone preparing a meal can now comfortably visit with family and friends gathered nearby.
The kitchen’s centerpiece is a new island featuring a reclaimed walnut top measuring 102 by 54 inches. Its rich color and distinctive grain bring warmth to the light cabinetry and stainless steel appliances. Drawers, open shelving, and a built-in microwave add practical storage and convenience, while glass pendant lights illuminate the generous work surface.
Reimagining the Primary Bathroom
Removing the chimney also created opportunities upstairs, allowing us to reconfigure and enhance the primary bathroom.
Two separate navy vanities provide individual sinks and storage, paired with light, subtly veined countertops, tall mirrors, and warm brass accents. Herringbone floor tile adds texture, and a row of windows fills the room with natural light.
The glass-enclosed shower features white subway tile, a hexagonal mosaic floor, an overhead rain shower, and a handheld sprayer. A separate toilet compartment adds privacy. Traditional trim and a cast-iron radiator help the updated space feel at home in this century-old house.
A Simple Update with a Noticeable Difference
In another upstairs bathroom, we replaced the shower curtain with a frameless glass tub enclosure. The clear glass gives the room a more open feel, keeping the existing white subway tile and glass-block window in view. The update fits comfortably alongside the bathroom’s classic black-and-white floor.
From Porch to Fourth Bathroom
Another significant change was converting an enclosed porch into the home’s fourth bathroom.
The new space features a warm wood double vanity, a large mirror, and glass pendant lights with brass accents. Large hexagonal floor tiles complement a walk-in shower finished with vertically arranged wall tile, a mosaic floor, and a recessed niche. Textured glass provides privacy while allowing light through, and a separate toilet compartment includes built-in shelving.
Transforming the porch gave the owners an additional full bathroom within the home’s existing footprint - a useful addition for everyday living and hosting guests.
Ready for Its Next Chapter
At Whitewood Hall, the changes work together: more connected gathering spaces, a generous kitchen island, and bathrooms designed for comfort and convenience. Each update brings new function to a home with a long history in Lexington.
We’re grateful to the owners for trusting Rockbridge Homes and Barns with this renovation. As we complete the finishing touches, we’re proud to have helped Whitewood Hall begin its next chapter.
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