Always Faithful

This 1930s apartment building is as pretty as a picture. A black iron gate opens onto a red brick path, all surrounded by a courtyard covered in lush ivy and leafy plants. It's hard to resist, and inside, there's just as much to love. Day or night, the private balcony is a sweet spot to savour a cup of coffee or a local ale, watching the world pass by on the streets below. Completely private and a rarity for the city, chances are, you'll find it hard to tear yourself away from this spot. The bright living area is cosy and stylish – we adore the exposed brick – and the sleek kitchen is stocked with all the culinary gear and crockery you'll need to rustle up a homecooked feast. If you run out of something, save yourself a trip to the store and grab something from the essentials cupboard in the hallway filled with household basics. Location-wise, this apartment is in lively Navy Yard, only a short walk from the shops, bars and eateries on Barracks Row. Known as the first post of the US Marine Corps, this neighbourhood now houses Michelin-starred restaurants and local boutiques alongside its military museums and landmarks. Plus, it's just a thirty-minute walk from The Capitol Building – or hop on the metro at Eastern Market when your feet need a break and be at The Smithsonian, White House and Arlington National Cemetery in no time.

Home truths:
*Two guests can sleep on the sofa bed, but there are only four dining chairs
*There's no cable – the hosts provide a Chromecast for streaming
*This apartment is in a central spot prone to noise with nearby construction – light sleepers may want to pack earplugs
*The dining table can double as a laptop-friendly workspace
*A car isn't needed, but there is limited free street parking on Potomac Avenue after 6:30pm Monday–Saturday and free parking on Sundays
*The host has multiple apartments in the building and we can't promise which one you'll get – while the style is consistent, the views, layout and design may vary
*This is a shared entrance – guests can self check-in on arrival and will have access to an app for 24/7 virtual support