We chatted with Erik Johnson, the photographer who shot our house for DIY last month, and discovered he lives about two hours north of us just outside Washington, D.C. Not only is he a skilled photographer, he also has a great eye for interior design. We were thrilled when he showed us photos from his own home on his iPhone — it’s full of thoughtful details and stylish, lived-in charm. Naturally, we wanted to share those images with you. Enjoy the tour:
Erik’s house sits in Alexandria, Virginia, in the Hollin Hills neighborhood, which includes many homes designed by Charles Goodman. Constructed in the 1940s, this midcentury residence is set among native plantings and grasses that give it striking curb appeal while feeling perfectly integrated with the landscape.
Many pieces in the house are thrift-store finds or Craigslist treasures — a perfect example being a sleek Crate & Barrel sofa that fits the home’s clean, modern lines while keeping things comfortable and approachable.
The kitchen is simple and utilitarian in layout, but it’s outfitted with high-end appliances — a top-of-the-line range and refrigerator — so it’s as functional as it is stylish. The clean surfaces and thoughtful hardware let the architecture and materials stand out.
Down the floating wood stairs, there’s a snug library-like nook filled with more secondhand finds. It’s the kind of cozy spot that invites lingering with a book or hosting a quiet conversation.
One of the most striking features of the home is the abundance of large windows. Those expansive panes flood each room with natural light and create strong indoor-outdoor connections, highlighting the home’s architectural lines and the surrounding greenery.
Erik’s photographs — and his home — are full of thoughtful details and a warm, lived-in modern aesthetic. We’re excited to see how his photos of our house turned out. Stay tuned for the shoot’s final images.