820 Highland Terrace NE

Here’s the truth: some addresses just hit different. 820 Highland Terrace, meticulously carved into one of Virginia Highland’s most coveted avenues, isn’t merely a home; it’s the very epicenter of sophisticated intown living. Perfectly positioned between the vibrant pulse of Morningside Village and the magnetic charm of Virginia Highland, this property is where life’s best moments unfold. Offered for the first time in nearly 35 years, it’s more than a listing; it’s a legacy. A rare opportunity to own a home that blends enduring quality with an undeniably modern edge.
Step inside and feel the refined energy. The fireside living room, marked by original architectural details, speaks to timeless elegance while feeling effortlessly fresh. To either side, two distinct yet complementary spaces invite: a private office with a shed ceiling, offering a focused retreat for work or creativity, and a sun-filled sitting room ideal for intimate conversation or afternoon lounging.
At the center of the home is a true showstopper, the chef’s kitchen. More atelier than utility space, this kitchen is a thoughtful union of rustic warmth and clean-lined modernity. White cathedral ceilings with rich wood beams soar above, framing striking geometric chandeliers that cast a welcoming glow. Iron casement windows bring in sunlight and leafy views, while concrete countertops and classic white cabinetry, grounded by solid chrome pulls, center around a deep apron-front sink. Culinary enthusiasts will appreciate the professional 6 burner Wolf range with a retractable, externally vented downdraft and the whisper-quiet Miele dishwasher. Adding another layer of thoughtful detail, a custom pantry by Ryan Hancock of Smith Hanes, visionary designer behind interiors for The Optimist and Atrium, boasts vertical paneling, matte black hardware, wine storage, and curated shelving.
Just beyond the kitchen, a light-filled living room overlooks your private intown oasis, a true extension of the home. The backyard stuns with a heated saltwater pool and spa, designed to soothe and impress. Two distinct covered spaces elevate outdoor living: the Lower Loggia, a lounge-ready deck perfect for entertaining with room for a large TV and plush seating, and the Upper Pavilion, a romantic dining space ideal for alfresco meals. A flat, manicured lawn offers space for play or relaxation, while integrated landscape lighting and color-changing pool lights create a dramatic ambiance well into the night.
Upstairs, you’ll find the scale and comfort of new construction with the character of a thoughtfully preserved home. Two secondary bedrooms share a spacious bathroom, while the laundry room is complete with a utility sink. The primary suite is a retreat in every sense: a cove ceiling adds drama, clerestory casement windows flood the room with light, and French doors open to a Juliet balcony that frames treetop views. Two custom walk-in closets lead to the marble-clad bathroom, where dual vanities, a jetted soaking tub, frameless glass shower, body sprays, and handheld fixtures complete your personal spa experience.
Function meets form with abundant closets, a full unfinished basement with a garage, a secure concrete-anchored safe, and an expansive attic ready for future customization. Recent updates provide peace of mind: a new HVAC (2025), a commercial-grade dehumidifier, EV charger, and structural pylons offer both comfort and confidence in the home’s foundation.
820 Highland Terrace isn’t just an address; it’s an invitation to a lifestyle designed with intention, creativity, and enduring charm. This is where legacy meets luxury, and every detail is curated for living beautifully.