By Tod Connell for the Civic Association of Hollin Hills (c) 2024 CAHH
By Tod Connell for the Civic Association of Hollin Hills (c) 2024 CAHH
If you're not familiar with Hollin Hills, the neighborhood just south of Old Town, Alexandria, they are holding their every-other-year Hollin Hills House and Garden Tour this spring. Although it is now sold out, there are plenty of free activities scheduled for all to enjoy. Here's more about this special neighborhood and be sure to check out the events below, associated with the tour.
The neighborhood was built from the late 1940s to the early 1970s by developer Robert Davenport and renowned architect Charles Goodman, and was the first community in the Washington, DC Metro area to be made up entirely of contemporary homes.
Recognized for its architectural and design vision, Hollin Hills was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2013, and is a Virginia Landmark Historic District.
The neighborhood includes more than 450 homes and multiple parks, covering a total of 326 acres.
Ask Hollin Hillers why they live here, and you’ll often hear something like: “We came for the architecture — and stayed for the people.”
Even if you missed out on tickets to this year’s sold-out Hollin Hills House and Garden Tour, there’s still plenty of reason to head to the Mid-Century Modern neighborhood.
Events
Organizers have lined up a series of free, open-to-the-public events that capture the spirit of Hollin Hills—its design legacy, creative energy and strong sense of community—no ticket required.
Thursday, April 30
The festivities begin Thursday, April 30, with an evening kickoff at Nepenthe Gallery at 7918 Fort Hunt Road. From 6 to 7:30 p.m., guests can browse a curated collection of mid-century modern–inspired works while enjoying wine and cheese in a relaxed gallery setting. The show draws connections between iconic figures like Motherwell, Dalí, Frank Lloyd Wright and Frankenthaler and contemporary artists, offering a fitting tribute to the aesthetic roots that define Hollin Hills. It’s equal parts art showcase and neighborhood toast.
Saturday, May 2
8-9 a.m.: Tour day on Saturday, May 2, starts on a calmer note with a morning yoga session at the Hollin Hills Pool from 8 to 9 a.m. Led by returning instructor Jess Purtell, the all-levels class invites participants to bring a mat, take a breath and ease into the day outdoors.
9-11 a.m.: Not long after, the energy shifts gears as Cars & Coffee rolls in from 9 to 11 a.m. Car enthusiasts can wander among classic and exotic vehicles, chat with fellow aficionados and grab coffee and pastries in a casual, social setting organized with the Old Town Festival of Speed and Style.
11 a.m.-1 p.m.: Late morning brings another neighborhood favorite: the 4th Annual Pottery Seconds Sale, running from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 7601 Elba Road. Visitors can browse handmade pieces, pick up unique finds and even leave purchases on site for later pickup—making it an easy stop whether or not you’re touring homes.
Taken together, these events offer a welcoming way to experience Hollin Hills beyond the ticketed tour. It’s a chance to connect with neighbors, explore the area’s creative side and take part in a weekend that celebrates one of Alexandria’s most distinctive communities—no RSVP, and no ticket, necessary.
