DC Embraces Tiny Houses

Photo Credit: Curbed

Photo Credit: Curbed

Amending DC’s housing code could allow for an increase in the number of smaller residences and thus more taxpayers. Technically known as “accessory dwelling units,” these little homes are suddenly all-the-rage in cities across America as people find themselves unable to take out loans for purchases or not wanting to splurge on a place they do not feel is worth it. Housing affordability is something that needs to be addressed and this could be the solution. Beginning September 6, provisions from the updated zoning code will make it easier to construct and rent these auxiliary houses when before each homeowner had to plead their case in front of a panel in order to be granted an exception to the rule. These changes will apply only to R-1, R-2, and R-3 zones presently and are subject to size and occupancy regulations. The government hopes that backyard homes will broaden the housing options for residents and thus lessen the burden on renters and the high prices that was causing. This will also be a boon to the economy as builders and architects work to install a wave of these mini-homes come fall when the regulations go into effect. These mini-houses are not without their potential controversy, however. Many fear that, while the law was passed successfully, that there will be backlash once the actual construction begins. The diversification that some are championing for this project could bother others in the future, creating tension in a previously calm neighborhood. Perks include an increased alleyway presence which could clean-up the area and increase street interactions as well as the opportunity for green living measures such as rain-collection or solar panels. DC’s intended course-of-action is not as restrictive on these dwelling units as those in parts of nearby Virginia so many of these homes could go up quickly if the public takes a liking to it. If truly successful, this could even go so far as to revolutionize the local housing market.

DHM Top Picks: Summer Movies for the Family

Everyone's favorite forgetful fish is making a comeback this summer!

Everyone's favorite forgetful fish is making a comeback this summer!

Summer in Washington means lots of great things: ice cream, the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, and humidity. The humidity, combined with a lack of school for the kids, means that you’re going to be on the hook for keeping everyone in comfortable temperatures and entertained. A great way to do both at once is to take your kids to the movies, where the air conditioning is so strong you may even need a jacket!

Summer is the best time to go to the movies, because all the major studios are dropping their exciting, big-budget movies that have great casts. This summer is no different, as a number of amazing movies will be in local theaters. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the movies we’re the most excited for this summer.

If your kids loved Finding Nemo, there’s a sequel coming up that focuses on everyone’s favorite forgetful fish. Pixar’s Finding Dory comes out on June 17th, and you bet we’re going to be in line with our snorkels to see what adventures she goes on next. Although it’s not yet rated, Finding Nemo was rated G meaning that the sequel will almost certainly be just as family-friendly as the first one. It looks to be a great option for the kids—multiple times over.

Then, avid fans of Roald Dahl are getting a huge surprise with the July 1 release of The BFG, or Big Friendly Giant. The BFG was adapted from one of Dahl’s most loved children’s books. A great way to incentivize reading for your kids is to let them see the movie (with a big box of candy) after they’ve finished reading the book. Plus, once they’re hooked on Dahl’s amazing writing, there are plenty more books and movies you can follow up with!

For older kids, a follow-up to the Ghostbusters trilogy is making a comeback in mid-July. This time, it features an all-star, all-female leading cast, which makes it especially great for young girls and women. It will also help make math and science seem cool—most of the women are academics!

If you have a favorite coming soon that we didn’t mention, leave it in the comments section!

The Natural Side of DC

A morning walk through Rock Creek Park is a great start to any day.

A morning walk through Rock Creek Park is a great start to any day.

Now that the sun is finally out, it’s time to get outside! While many associate Washington DC with politics and big business, the area is home to a wide array of parks, hikes, and streams that offer beautiful places to unwind. What better way to enjoy your weekend than with a hike through Rock Creek Park, offering over 25 miles of trails to explore, right in the backyard of Washington. If you and the family are seeking a challenging adventure, head over to the Billy Goat Trail and enjoy beautiful views of the Potomac River and a great cardio workout. If the kids are craving a day on the water, head down to Fletcher’s Cove for fishing and boating, with hassle-free rentals available onsite. It’s time to enjoy the sunshine before DC’s signature summer weather sets in. Head outside today!

In Anticipation of Momofuku

For those Washingtonians who have yet to visit NYC, Sydney, or Toronto to dine at one of Momofuku’s various locations, Momofuku is finally coming to you in DC! Momofuku is a group of restaurants serving Asian-style food, owned by Korean American celebrity chef-founder David Chang. Existing restaurants include Momofuku Noodle Bar, Momofuku Ssäm Bar, Má Pêche, Milk Bar, and a multitude of other delicious locations. “Momofuku” can be translated to “lucky peach” and is also an indirect nod to Momofuku Ando, the Chinese-Japanese inventor of instant ramen.


Momofuku is coming to CityCenterDC at 1090 I St. NW, though representatives of the restaurant group have declined to reveal any major details about the project, including the name or projected opening date. For now, the location is hiring, and there is a liquor license application in the works. One thing is for sure; a Momofuku Milk Bar, the sister bakery of the restaurant group, is on track to open sometime this summer. The Milk Bar was founded in 2012 by award-winning chef, Christina Tosi. Its focus is on putting a playfully American, approachable spin on familiar home-style desserts and savory snacks using quality ingredients and locally sourced dairy. Can’t wait!

DC Location - Coming Soon!

DC Location - Coming Soon!

Tips for a Photogenic Home

Those swoon-worthy homes featured in magazines may seem out of reach, but in fact they aren’t. With some styling and attention to detail, you can play interior designer and make your own place look like it came straight from a magazine. 

Pile on the Pillows

 If your home features a bed, a sofa, or anything made to be comfortable enough to rest on, complement the spot with some decorative pillows. For larger areas like beds and couches, one pair of pillows may not be enough. Use two pairs to avoid looking skimpy. Mix it up by contrasting textures, colors, sizes, and even patterns.

Create Height

Branches and greenery make for excellent accents in a home by enhancing large spaces as well as smaller ones. Place them in simple vases throughout your household to bring dimension into each room. A simple collection of branches and greenery adds instant freshness in a more gender-neutral fashion than a bouquet of flowers would.

 

Open Up

101711801.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg

An open armoire or cabinet is far more interesting than a closed one. Invite others to take a peak inside your world by keeping these spaces open. You can organize your collection of silverware or wine bottles, and put in a vase or small trunk for variety.

 

Decorative Trays

Candles, perfumes, and other countertop necessities that would otherwise be scattered around haphazardly look beautiful in decorative trays. These trays work especially well in bathrooms where products have a tendency to overflow.

 

Tea Towels

Inject personality and life into your kitchen easily with some colorful tea towels. Depending on your kitchen, go for colors and patterns that pop or more subtly enhance your space. Drape them over the side of your sink or fold them neatly onto countertops for an improved visual.

 

Keep Throws Neat

A warm throw is both good for the soul and the aesthetic of a home. They are great for adding color and texture to a space, while also providing a homey comfort. Just be sure to keep your throws under control. Fold them neatly, and carefully tuck them into cushions.

 

Leave Chairs Pulled Out

When a chair is pulled out slightly from a desk or table, it allows for the viewer to take in the shape and style of the piece. This keeps a room interesting in both photos and real life. Give it a try in your own home, just not too far out so that the chair becomes a hazard.

 

Skirted Furniture

Too many chair and table legs leave a space looking unpolished and unfinished. Kick cramped, nervous energy to the curb with some skirted pieces. This can make a major difference to your room by giving it a more grounded feel.

 

No More Lonely Corners

Leaving some space in a home is vital. However, when there are corners left with too much dead space, it can feel awkward leaving something to be desired. Soften up a lonely corner in a big space with a tall vase or a potted tree.

 

Spark a Fire

Lighting is everything. Install extra lights or lamps to brighten up a space and keep a home well lit. Whether you want to enliven a home or calm it, ambiance can make all the difference. Nothing makes for a more homey and cozy feel than a roaring fireplace or some romantic candles.