In 1830, John Hollensbury, a brickmaker in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, had a problem—and it wasn’t a small one, despite the size of the alley next to his home.

At just 7.5 feet wide, the narrow passage attracted loiterers and caused constant damage to his walls from passing horse-drawn carriages. Hollensbury’s solution? Build what might be one of the pettiest homes in history: the Alexandria Spite House.

This tiny two-story house didn’t just block the alley—it made a bold statement. Squeezed so tightly that its neighboring brick walls double as its interior walls, the Spite House stretches 25 feet deep into what was once the troublesome alleyway.

At just 325 square feet, the home packs plenty of charm into its snug quarters. The first floor features a cozy sitting area and a compact kitchen, while upstairs, you’ll find a small bedroom and a bathroom complete with a claw-foot tub.

Despite its spiteful origins, the house has proven to be surprisingly livable. One couple even called it home for nearly 25 years. The current owner purchased the property in 1990 for $130,000 and, as of 2008, uses it as a charming pied-à-terre.

With its quirky history and unique design, the Alexandria Spite House has become a lasting symbol of creativity—and perhaps a little stubbornness—in the face of life’s annoyances.

​Take a peek at the home's interior.

Sometimes, architecture is about making a statement.

It always involves solving problems for our clients. Maybe not this problem, but many are inspired by this story.

How can more be accommodated in a small space? How can a structure be raised? How can natural light and ventilation be incorporated?

Please reply to this email and let us know what quirky problems you've solved. We'd love to know.

Have a great rest of your week.
The A-Team