Southern Experience with Black Southern Belle: Historic DC Firehouse

Looking for a uniquely DC experience on your next weekend getaway? You definitely should check out this Airbnb in the historically African American Shaw Neighborhood. This building housed the first all-Black fire fighting company in the District and has been completely designed to reflect this rich history by celebrity designer, Genevieve Gorder, and also featured on the Netflix show, Stay Here. Explore a design tour of this historic African American firehouse turned Airbnb and be sure to share images of your travel on social media with the hashtag #blacksouthernbelle.

Located in the historic Shaw neighborhood, DC Firehouse is near exceptional restaurants, bars, and black history museums. Built in 1884 and fully renovated in 2017 the DC Firehouse merges the buildings original architectural beauty with contemporary design. Modern amenities and unique features provide guests with a unique experience that brilliantly combines the past and present.

The DC Firehouse’s 2000 square feet features 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, and open concept living. The space displays rich, historic artwork and design with exposed elements and bold patterns. The expansive living space is anchored by a gas fireplace with a photo of the African American firefighters who bravely served and protected Washington DC. The rooms truly embody this history of this building and is a stunning visual memory of this building’s history.

Michiel Perry | Michiel Perry is the founder of Black Southern Belle and the curated network of diverse brands Black Southern Belle Collective. Prior to her blog, Michiel worked as a brand strategist and event planner for Google, Inc in Washington, D.C. and a collegiate marketing ambassador at Lillybee. In 2014, she was inspired to develop this lifestyle brand highlighting diverse Southern tastemakers and all things “Southern Bred and Soul Infused”, while planning her Charleston wedding and decorating her first home. She desired to build a community to inspire, experience, share a love for the South.

Michiel resides in a historic home outside of Charleston with her husband and son. When she is not exploring the South, creating inspired entertaining experiences, or working with brands, you can find her adding to her antique collections and sharing her love for the low country.

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