This project is a new 5,900 sf. primary residence for a couple with three children. The site is slightly elevated above the residential street and enjoys winter views of the Potomac River. The family’s requirements included five bedrooms, five full baths, a powder room, family room, dining room, eat-in kitchen, walk-in pantry, mudroom, lower level recreation room, exercise room, media room and numerous storage spaces. Also included was the request for an outdoor terrace and adequate outdoor storage, including provision for the storage of bikes and kayaks. The family needed a home that would have two entrances, the primary entrance, and a mudroom entry that would provide generous storage spaces for the family’s active lifestyle. Due to the small lot size, the challenge was to accommodate the family’s requirements, while remaining sympathetic to the scale of neighboring homes. The residence employs a “T” shaped plan to aid in minimizing the massing visible from the street, while organizing interior spaces around a private outdoor terrace space accessible from the living and dining spaces. A generous front porch and a gambrel roof diminish the home’s scale, providing a welcoming view along the street front. A path along the right side of the residence leads to the family entrance and a small outbuilding that provides ready access to the bikes and kayaks while shielding the rear terrace from view of neighboring homes. The two entrances join a central stair hall that leads to the eat-in kitchen overlooking the great room. Window seats and a custom built banquette provide gathering spaces, while the French doors connect the great room to the terrace where the arbor transitions to the garden. A first floor guest suite, separate from the family areas of the home, affords privacy for both guests and hosts alike. The second floor Master Suite enjoys views of the Potomac River through a second floor arched balcony visible from the front. The exterior is composed of a board and batten first floor with a cedar shingled second floor and gambrel roof. These two contrasting materials and the inclusion of a partially recessed front porch contribute to the perceived diminution of the home’s scale relative to its smaller neighbors. The overall intention was to create a close fit between the residence and the neighboring context, both built and natural. Builder: E.H. Johnstone Builders Anice Hoachlander Photography

The eating area connected to the kitchen is filled with light courtesy of the numerous windows and a set of French doors. The vaulted ceililng contributes to the airy feeling of the space. Sleek and contemporary, this beautiful home is located in Villanova, PA. Blue, white and gold are the palette of this transitional design. With custom touches and an emphasis on flow and an open floor plan, the renovation included the kitchen, family room, butler’s pantry, mudroom, two powder rooms and floors. Rudloff Custom Builders has won Best of Houzz for Customer Service in 2014, 2015 2016, 2017 and 2019. We also were voted Best of Design in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 which only 2% of professionals receive. Rudloff Custom Builders has been featured on Houzz in their Kitchen of the Week, What to Know About Using Reclaimed Wood in the Kitchen as well as included in their Bathroom WorkBook article. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area. This business, like most others, developed from a friendship of young entrepreneurs who wanted to make a difference in their clients’ lives, one household at a time. This relationship between partners is much more than a friendship. Edward and Stephen Rudloff are brothers who have renovated and built custom homes together paying close attention to detail. They are carpenters by trade and understand concept and execution. Rudloff Custom Builders will provide services for you with the highest level of professionalism, quality, detail, punctuality and craftsmanship, every step of the way along our journey together. Specializing in residential construction allows us to connect with our clients early in the design phase to ensure that every detail is captured as you imagined. One stop shopping is essentially what you will receive with Rudloff Custom Builders from design of your project to the construction of your dreams, executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsmen. Our concept: envision our client’s ideas and make them a reality. Our mission: CREATING LIFETIME RELATIONSHIPS BUILT ON TRUST AND INTEGRITY. Photo Credit: Linda McManus Images

This project is a new 5,900 sf. primary residence for a couple with three children. The site is slightly elevated above the residential street and enjoys winter views of the Potomac River. The family’s requirements included five bedrooms, five full baths, a powder room, family room, dining room, eat-in kitchen, walk-in pantry, mudroom, lower level recreation room, exercise room, media room and numerous storage spaces. Also included was the request for an outdoor terrace and adequate outdoor storage, including provision for the storage of bikes and kayaks. The family needed a home that would have two entrances, the primary entrance, and a mudroom entry that would provide generous storage spaces for the family’s active lifestyle. Due to the small lot size, the challenge was to accommodate the family’s requirements, while remaining sympathetic to the scale of neighboring homes. The residence employs a “T” shaped plan to aid in minimizing the massing visible from the street, while organizing interior spaces around a private outdoor terrace space accessible from the living and dining spaces. A generous front porch and a gambrel roof diminish the home’s scale, providing a welcoming view along the street front. A path along the right side of the residence leads to the family entrance and a small outbuilding that provides ready access to the bikes and kayaks while shielding the rear terrace from view of neighboring homes. The two entrances join a central stair hall that leads to the eat-in kitchen overlooking the great room. Window seats and a custom built banquette provide gathering spaces, while the French doors connect the great room to the terrace where the arbor transitions to the garden. A first floor guest suite, separate from the family areas of the home, affords privacy for both guests and hosts alike. The second floor Master Suite enjoys views of the Potomac River through a second floor arched balcony visible from the front. The exterior is composed of a board and batten first floor with a cedar shingled second floor and gambrel roof. These two contrasting materials and the inclusion of a partially recessed front porch contribute to the perceived diminution of the home’s scale relative to its smaller neighbors. The overall intention was to create a close fit between the residence and the neighboring context, both built and natural. Builder: E.H. Johnstone Builders Anice Hoachlander Photography

Portabella stained bamboo base cabinets and island with crystal white wall cabinets provide the backdrop for this modern kitchen. The slab doors, floating shelves and square lines contribute to the minimalist design. A geometric pattern backsplash adds depth to the space while solid white quartz countertops pulls the look together. Finishing touches include a custom range hood with a brushed nickel skirt and brushed nickel hardware.

"Whimsical yet always elegant, the Morning Glory Collection takes its inspiration from stylized organic forms. The designs include some of Aqua’s most iconic pieces." "Whimsical yet always elegant, the Morning Glory Collection takes its inspiration from stylized organic forms. The designs include some of Aqua’s most iconic pieces." "Whimsical yet always elegant, the Morning Glory Collection takes its inspiration from stylized organic forms. The designs include some of Aqua’s most iconic pieces." "The Orchestra Collection’s organic figures were inspired by natural forms as well as modern sculpture and architecture. Like members of a light orchestra, each piece contributes its unique tone to create a harmony of light capturing space in any home or public area. The lighting pieces of the Orchestra Collection come in different sizes and colors, offering creative lighting solutions." "The Orchestra Collection’s organic figures were inspired by natural forms as well as modern sculpture and architecture. Like members of a light orchestra, each piece contributes its unique tone to create a harmony of light capturing space in any home or public area. The lighting pieces of the Orchestra Collection come in different sizes and colors, offering creative lighting solutions." "The Orchestra Collection’s organic figures were inspired by natural forms as well as modern sculpture and architecture. Like members of a light orchestra, each piece contributes its unique tone to create a harmony of light capturing space in any home or public area. The lighting pieces of the Orchestra Collection come in different sizes and colors, offering creative lighting solutions." "The Orchestra Collection’s organic figures were inspired by natural forms as well as modern sculpture and architecture. Like members of a light orchestra, each piece contributes its unique tone to create a harmony of light capturing space in any home or public area. The lighting pieces of the Orchestra Collection come in different sizes and colors, offering creative lighting solutions." "The Orchestra Collection’s organic figures were inspired by natural forms as well as modern sculpture and architecture. Like members of a light orchestra, each piece contributes its unique tone to create a harmony of light capturing space in any home or public area. The lighting pieces of the Orchestra Collection come in different sizes and colors, offering creative lighting solutions." "The Orchestra Collection’s organic figures were inspired by natural forms as well as modern sculpture and architecture. Like members of a light orchestra, each piece contributes its unique tone to create a harmony of light capturing space in any home or public area. The lighting pieces of the Orchestra Collection come in different sizes and colors, offering creative lighting solutions." Palm Tree Upright Beauty – Bring in some exotic freshness in your living room with this designer floor lamp which has a remarkable shape of a tree. The quirky shaped lamps of the designer floor lamp are quite attractive and makes a stunning home décor. Palm Tree Upright Beauty – Bring in some exotic freshness in your living room with this designer floor lamp which has a remarkable shape of a tree. The quirky shaped lamps of the designer floor lamp are quite attractive and makes a stunning home décor. "Zooid wall is the first member of the Zooid Collection. Just as in nature, Zooids may be used as single fixtures or grouped together forming a 3 dimensional composition. " DESCRIPTION Apaya Swirling Illuminators– These lightings are the perfect home decors which will light up the ambiance of your home. The stylish designs of the dining room lightings portray luminous designs with crisscross shapes. Easy to handle with easy maintenance. Aqua Regia Floor Remarkable Vines – This contemporary floor lamp has an exotic look and can be accessorized in any part of your home. Featuring a small yet wonderful design, this contemporary floor lamp will light up the space and bring in a charming feel. Blondie Bee Amber Delights – Deck up your home with this vibrantly designed ceiling light fixture which has a bright colored texture with high quality material. This easy to install ceiling light fixture will certainly spark up the living space and gain praises from the guests. Dark Snow Wall Spectacle – Elegant and classy, these modern house lightings portray a surreal outlook with their unconventional design which can be easily attired on your home’s wall. Decorate the dining room with the modern house lightings and watch your guests go “wow”. Diamond Zooid Relaxed Accessory – Add a touch of enigma with this eluding pendant lighting which has a gorgeous shape of a diamond and exceptional color combination. It can be suspended easily in the living room. The pendant lighting is easy to install and has a wonderful appearance. Dippa Cluster Bevy of Colors – Illuminate your lifestyle with these amazingly colorful ceiling lights which will certainly grab the attention of your guests. With round shapes and bright shades, these ceiling lights are absolutely stunning and worth purchasing. Doe Turquoise Charm Them Away – With a bright aqua shade and an abstruse design, this designer floor lamp is the true example of elegance. Light up the ambiance of your home and let everyone witness the grandeur of this designer floor lamp which can be placed easily in your home. Evening Glory Twilight Magnificence – A fine blend of charisma and beauty, this side wall lighting has a royal outlook and a sleek figurine. Easy to setup, this side wall lighting emanates a soft yellowish shade which lights up the room elegantly. An absolute masterpiece! Evening Glory Rust Exquisite Eminence – It’s time to perk up the environment of your home with a touch of glamor with these prime quality side wall lightings. These décor items have a wide base and are set up on walls for a decorative outlook. The rustic color combination goes well with the side wall lightings. Fumo Revel In The Glory – Deck up your dining space with these delightful overhead dining room lighting and get flooded by praises from the guests. These bell-shaped dining room lightings radiate a soft whitish shade which glows up the entire room and creates a stunning appearance. Jhon Snow Wall Adornments – Brighten the ambiance of your living room with these luxuriously designed modern lighting solutions and watch how your guests enjoy the view. The rectangular shape of the wall lights is complemented by the glowing whitish shade and premium quality material. Lucy Lamp Serene Lights – Vibrant and surreal, these modern lighting solutions will certainly perk up your funky lifestyle and add colors to your homely ambiance. The varied color combinations of the round shaped modern lightings are quite attractive and can be easily installed. Mimosa Moonlight – Be it on the floor or ceiling, these modern vanity lightings are absolutely mesmerizing. Highlighting a distinct image, these modern vanity lightings can be easily installed in the living arena or suspended beautifully from the ceiling for the perfect alluring look. Mino Glam It Up – Let opaline lights flood your living room as you accessorize your lifestyle with this designer floor lamp. The abstract shape of this designer floor lamp along with the white ruffles are quite appealing and lends a classy touch to your living room. Touché! Molecules Globules of Elegance – These multi-purpose light fixture can be used for ceiling lights, table tops and floor lamps to bring over an extravagant presence in your living arena. The pearly light of the contemporary lighting is fascinating with its circular design and attracts the attention of your guests. Molecules Globules of Elegance – These multi-purpose light fixture can be used for ceiling lights, table tops and floor lamps to bring over an extravagant presence in your living arena. The pearly light of the contemporary lighting is fascinating with its circular design and attracts the attention of your guests. Morning Glory Emerald Elevated Dreams – Lift up the ambiance of the living space with these colossal designer floor lamps. With vibrant greenish shades and curvy designs, the designer floor lamps will illuminate the space in a sensual way and will also save on electricity costs. Aqua’s most iconic pieces."

The huge single under-mount stainless sink is positioned at the window over-looking the pool and lush back yard. The bump-out design adds interest and the latches on the upper cabinet doors add a nautical/coastal flair. There are two islands, this "front" one convenient to the sink and refrigeration features ample storage with many drawers including the microwave drawer. The counter is Labrodorite which is commonly used for jewelry. It's iridescent and sparkles like moonstone. The center section between the two islands features an oval wood-topped table with banquette bench seating on two sides. The show-stopping coffered ceiling was custom designed and features a highlighted central area in a circular design. The area behind the range has marble subway tile and the other backsplash areas are raised wood panels giving a furniture quality to this homey space. The dishwasher and large Sub-Zero refrigerator are also paneled in white wood while the microwave and 48" range is stainless steel. The prior cherry kitchen from the late 1990's with Corian counters was re-invented as a entertainment/auxiliary kitchen in the lower level of the house. This great space was a collaboration between many talented folks including but not limited to the team at Delicious Kitchens & Interiors, LLC, L. Newman and Associates/Paul Mansback, Inc with Leslie Rifkin and Emily Shakra, contributions from the homeowners and counters via Belisle Granite. John C. Hession Photographer

Constructed in two phases, this renovation, with a few small additions, touched nearly every room in this late ‘50’s ranch house. The owners raised their family within the original walls and love the house’s location, which is not far from town and also borders conservation land. But they didn’t love how chopped up the house was and the lack of exposure to natural daylight and views of the lush rear woods. Plus, they were ready to de-clutter for a more stream-lined look. As a result, KHS collaborated with them to create a quiet, clean design to support the lifestyle they aspire to in retirement. To transform the original ranch house, KHS proposed several significant changes that would make way for a number of related improvements. Proposed changes included the removal of the attached enclosed breezeway (which had included a stair to the basement living space) and the two-car garage it partially wrapped, which had blocked vital eastern daylight from accessing the interior. Together the breezeway and garage had also contributed to a long, flush front façade. In its stead, KHS proposed a new two-car carport, attached storage shed, and exterior basement stair in a new location. The carport is bumped closer to the street to relieve the flush front facade and to allow access behind it to eastern daylight in a relocated rear kitchen. KHS also proposed a new, single, more prominent front entry, closer to the driveway to replace the former secondary entrance into the dark breezeway and a more formal main entrance that had been located much farther down the facade and curiously bordered the bedroom wing. Inside, low ceilings and soffits in the primary family common areas were removed to create a cathedral ceiling (with rod ties) over a reconfigured semi-open living, dining, and kitchen space. A new gas fireplace serving the relocated dining area -- defined by a new built-in banquette in a new bay window -- was designed to back up on the existing wood-burning fireplace that continues to serve the living area. A shared full bath, serving two guest bedrooms on the main level, was reconfigured, and additional square footage was captured for a reconfigured master bathroom off the existing master bedroom. A new whole-house color palette, including new finishes and new cabinetry, complete the transformation. Today, the owners enjoy a fresh and airy re-imagining of their familiar ranch house. Photos by Katie Hutchison

Constructed in two phases, this renovation, with a few small additions, touched nearly every room in this late ‘50’s ranch house. The owners raised their family within the original walls and love the house’s location, which is not far from town and also borders conservation land. But they didn’t love how chopped up the house was and the lack of exposure to natural daylight and views of the lush rear woods. Plus, they were ready to de-clutter for a more stream-lined look. As a result, KHS collaborated with them to create a quiet, clean design to support the lifestyle they aspire to in retirement. To transform the original ranch house, KHS proposed several significant changes that would make way for a number of related improvements. Proposed changes included the removal of the attached enclosed breezeway (which had included a stair to the basement living space) and the two-car garage it partially wrapped, which had blocked vital eastern daylight from accessing the interior. Together the breezeway and garage had also contributed to a long, flush front façade. In its stead, KHS proposed a new two-car carport, attached storage shed, and exterior basement stair in a new location. The carport is bumped closer to the street to relieve the flush front facade and to allow access behind it to eastern daylight in a relocated rear kitchen. KHS also proposed a new, single, more prominent front entry, closer to the driveway to replace the former secondary entrance into the dark breezeway and a more formal main entrance that had been located much farther down the facade and curiously bordered the bedroom wing. Inside, low ceilings and soffits in the primary family common areas were removed to create a cathedral ceiling (with rod ties) over a reconfigured semi-open living, dining, and kitchen space. A new gas fireplace serving the relocated dining area -- defined by a new built-in banquette in a new bay window -- was designed to back up on the existing wood-burning fireplace that continues to serve the living area. A shared full bath, serving two guest bedrooms on the main level, was reconfigured, and additional square footage was captured for a reconfigured master bathroom off the existing master bedroom. A new whole-house color palette, including new finishes and new cabinetry, complete the transformation. Today, the owners enjoy a fresh and airy re-imagining of their familiar ranch house. Photos by Katie Hutchison

Our introduction to the Tahoe site was in late winter, on a clear sunny day with filtered light and long shadows through snow-laden fir and pine bows. It made a strong impression, stored for future consideration but the impetus for the design came soon after the spring snow melt. A powerful sense of horizontal layering of vegetation and various stages of decomposing downed timber on the two-acre site, juxtaposed with pine and fir trees and the dense canopy of the surrounding forest. The site is located near the historic 1960 Olympic Nordic track, situated on the edge of wetlands and seasonal streams. The homeowners were previous clients and dreamt of having a retreat in the Sierras away from their home base in Berkeley, CA. Among skiers, bike riders, hikers, and boaters, they found the ideal central location for their home base near Lake Tahoe. The home is organized as a series of linked spaces, each providing a unique sensory experience and connection to different parts of the site, both vertically and horizontally. The design includes extensive use of glass to create a true indoor/outdoor connection and maximize natural light. At the center of the site are two large fir trees, which the building respectfully wraps around in an L shape to create a focal point in the landscaped courtyard. A refined, context-driven palette of natural materials including cedar, oak, fir, and steel is used to harmoniously blend in among the surroundings. The construction includes advanced details such as thermally broken steel beams supporting layered roof planes engineered to hold snow rather than shed it. Designed to resist significant load, we exposed the steel structure as a recurring element in the interior spaces. The resulting columns and support beams contribute to the familiar design aspects of each room and provide a better understanding of how the building was constructed. The second floor features cantilevered volumes that reach out into the nearby evergreen limbs, likening the experience to being in a tree house. The house incorporates features such as radiant heating, solar panels, and operable windows for passive cooling. Fire safety measures include the use of naturally fire-resistant materials, a Class A roof construction, sprinklers, and drought-tolerant landscaping beyond the defensible space.

Photo: Jordana Nicholson © 2016 Houzz
Eclectic entryway photo in Nashville

Our introduction to the Tahoe site was in late winter, on a clear sunny day with filtered light and long shadows through snow-laden fir and pine bows. It made a strong impression, stored for future consideration but the impetus for the design came soon after the spring snow melt. A powerful sense of horizontal layering of vegetation and various stages of decomposing downed timber on the two-acre site, juxtaposed with pine and fir trees and the dense canopy of the surrounding forest. The site is located near the historic 1960 Olympic Nordic track, situated on the edge of wetlands and seasonal streams. The homeowners were previous clients and dreamt of having a retreat in the Sierras away from their home base in Berkeley, CA. Among skiers, bike riders, hikers, and boaters, they found the ideal central location for their home base near Lake Tahoe. The home is organized as a series of linked spaces, each providing a unique sensory experience and connection to different parts of the site, both vertically and horizontally. The design includes extensive use of glass to create a true indoor/outdoor connection and maximize natural light. At the center of the site are two large fir trees, which the building respectfully wraps around in an L shape to create a focal point in the landscaped courtyard. A refined, context-driven palette of natural materials including cedar, oak, fir, and steel is used to harmoniously blend in among the surroundings. The construction includes advanced details such as thermally broken steel beams supporting layered roof planes engineered to hold snow rather than shed it. Designed to resist significant load, we exposed the steel structure as a recurring element in the interior spaces. The resulting columns and support beams contribute to the familiar design aspects of each room and provide a better understanding of how the building was constructed. The second floor features cantilevered volumes that reach out into the nearby evergreen limbs, likening the experience to being in a tree house. The house incorporates features such as radiant heating, solar panels, and operable windows for passive cooling. Fire safety measures include the use of naturally fire-resistant materials, a Class A roof construction, sprinklers, and drought-tolerant landscaping beyond the defensible space.

This farmhouse style master bathroom includes numerous small details that help to contribute to the charming look of this home. The reclaimed wood sliding door features alternating dark and light grained slats of wood and a rustic pull handle. The pendant lighting and wall-hung framed mirrors both include small details in design. The pull handles on the shaker cabinet doors include small features that make them unique and charming.

A COUNTRY FARMHOUSE COTTAGE WITH A VICTORIAN SPIRIT House plan # 2896 by Drummond House Plans PDF & Blueprints starting at: $979 This cottage distinguishes itself in American style by its exterior round gallery which beautifully encircles the front corner turret, thus tying the garage to the house. The main level is appointed with a living room separated from the dining room by a two-sided fireplace, a generous kitchen and casual breakfast area, a half-bath and a home office in the turret. On the second level, no space is wasted. The master suite includes a walk-in closet and spa-style bathroom in the turret. Two additional bedrooms share a Jack-and-Jill bathroom and a laundry room is on this level for easy access from all of the bedrooms. The lateral entry to the garage includes an architectural window detail which contributes greatly to the curb appeal of this model.

We’ve given the Palisades Apartment Complex brand new common areas for its residents and staff to enjoy. After a total remodel, the party room and office area have been redesigned (these two spaces were flipped, as we described in an earlier post) and the pool area, bathrooms and exercise room also have a new, upscale look. In the party room, the new carpet with its fun, bold pattern, (also featured in an earlier post) furniture, wallcoverings and fabrics all contribute to a contemporary, fun space. Special attention was placed on the bar area, which makes a statement with its unique textured metal panels – a feature we shared on our facebook page while the design was in progress. That statement is echoed by the etched metal pieces behind the bar. The new seating area makes an inviting place to linger. All the party room furniture, including barstools and tables, is easy to move, making the space versatile. The fireplace adds warmth and ambiance. It’s conveniently built-in, along with the flat-screen TV above it. Wallcoverings contribute to the comfortable feel in the room, as well as adding protection for the walls. Contemporary and fun artwork in the pool area coordinates with the other updates in the complex, as does the design of the office reception area. We’ve given the Palisades Apartment Complex brand new common areas for its residents and staff to enjoy. After a total remodel, the party room and office area have been redesigned (these two spaces were flipped, as we described in an earlier post) and the pool area, bathrooms and exercise room also have a new, upscale look. In the party room, the new carpet with its fun, bold pattern, (also featured in an earlier post) furniture, wallcoverings and fabrics all contribute to a contemporary, fun space. Special attention was placed on the bar area, which makes a statement with its unique textured metal panels – a feature we shared on our facebook page while the design was in progress. That statement is echoed by the etched metal pieces behind the bar. The new seating area makes an inviting place to linger. All the party room furniture, including barstools and tables, is easy to move, making the space versatile. The fireplace adds warmth and ambiance. It’s conveniently built-in, along with the flat-screen TV above it. Wallcoverings contribute to the comfortable feel in the room, as well as adding protection for the walls. Contemporary and fun artwork in the pool area coordinates with the other updates in the complex, as does the design of the office reception area.

Down a private lane and sited on an oak studded lot, this charming Kott home has been transformed with contemporary finishes and clean line design. Vaulted ceilings create light filled spaces that open to outdoor living. Modern choices of Italian tiles combine with hardwood floors and newly installed carpets. Fireplaces in both the living and family room. Dining room with picture window to the garden. Kitchen with ample cabinetry, newer appliances and charming eat-in area. The floor plan includes a gracious upstairs master suite and two well-sized bedrooms and two full bathrooms downstairs. Solar, A/C, steel Future Roof and dual pane windows and doors all contribute to the energy efficiency of this modern design. Quality throughout allows you to move right and enjoy the convenience of a close-in location and the desirable Kentfield school district.

This beautiful coastal kitchen features a Cambria quartz Oakmoor™ island with a waterfall edge. The design’s sandy waves contribute to the home’s inviting beachy feel and serve as a perfect focal point in this open-concept space. Other kitchen details include mint green cabinetry, blonde woods, matte black pendant lights, sculptural stools, and gold pulls. Design: Blackband Home & Design // Builder: SC Homes

This project is a new 5,900 sf. primary residence for a couple with three children. The site is slightly elevated above the residential street and enjoys winter views of the Potomac River. The family’s requirements included five bedrooms, five full baths, a powder room, family room, dining room, eat-in kitchen, walk-in pantry, mudroom, lower level recreation room, exercise room, media room and numerous storage spaces. Also included was the request for an outdoor terrace and adequate outdoor storage, including provision for the storage of bikes and kayaks. The family needed a home that would have two entrances, the primary entrance, and a mudroom entry that would provide generous storage spaces for the family’s active lifestyle. Due to the small lot size, the challenge was to accommodate the family’s requirements, while remaining sympathetic to the scale of neighboring homes. The residence employs a “T” shaped plan to aid in minimizing the massing visible from the street, while organizing interior spaces around a private outdoor terrace space accessible from the living and dining spaces. A generous front porch and a gambrel roof diminish the home’s scale, providing a welcoming view along the street front. A path along the right side of the residence leads to the family entrance and a small outbuilding that provides ready access to the bikes and kayaks while shielding the rear terrace from view of neighboring homes. The two entrances join a central stair hall that leads to the eat-in kitchen overlooking the great room. Window seats and a custom built banquette provide gathering spaces, while the French doors connect the great room to the terrace where the arbor transitions to the garden. A first floor guest suite, separate from the family areas of the home, affords privacy for both guests and hosts alike. The second floor Master Suite enjoys views of the Potomac River through a second floor arched balcony visible from the front. The exterior is composed of a board and batten first floor with a cedar shingled second floor and gambrel roof. These two contrasting materials and the inclusion of a partially recessed front porch contribute to the perceived diminution of the home’s scale relative to its smaller neighbors. The overall intention was to create a close fit between the residence and the neighboring context, both built and natural. Builder: E.H. Johnstone Builders Anice Hoachlander Photography

Our introduction to the Tahoe site was in late winter, on a clear sunny day with filtered light and long shadows through snow-laden fir and pine bows. It made a strong impression, stored for future consideration but the impetus for the design came soon after the spring snow melt. A powerful sense of horizontal layering of vegetation and various stages of decomposing downed timber on the two-acre site, juxtaposed with pine and fir trees and the dense canopy of the surrounding forest. The site is located near the historic 1960 Olympic Nordic track, situated on the edge of wetlands and seasonal streams. The homeowners were previous clients and dreamt of having a retreat in the Sierras away from their home base in Berkeley, CA. Among skiers, bike riders, hikers, and boaters, they found the ideal central location for their home base near Lake Tahoe. The home is organized as a series of linked spaces, each providing a unique sensory experience and connection to different parts of the site, both vertically and horizontally. The design includes extensive use of glass to create a true indoor/outdoor connection and maximize natural light. At the center of the site are two large fir trees, which the building respectfully wraps around in an L shape to create a focal point in the landscaped courtyard. A refined, context-driven palette of natural materials including cedar, oak, fir, and steel is used to harmoniously blend in among the surroundings. The construction includes advanced details such as thermally broken steel beams supporting layered roof planes engineered to hold snow rather than shed it. Designed to resist significant load, we exposed the steel structure as a recurring element in the interior spaces. The resulting columns and support beams contribute to the familiar design aspects of each room and provide a better understanding of how the building was constructed. The second floor features cantilevered volumes that reach out into the nearby evergreen limbs, likening the experience to being in a tree house. The house incorporates features such as radiant heating, solar panels, and operable windows for passive cooling. Fire safety measures include the use of naturally fire-resistant materials, a Class A roof construction, sprinklers, and drought-tolerant landscaping beyond the defensible space.

Our introduction to the Tahoe site was in late winter, on a clear sunny day with filtered light and long shadows through snow-laden fir and pine bows. It made a strong impression, stored for future consideration but the impetus for the design came soon after the spring snow melt. A powerful sense of horizontal layering of vegetation and various stages of decomposing downed timber on the two-acre site, juxtaposed with pine and fir trees and the dense canopy of the surrounding forest. The site is located near the historic 1960 Olympic Nordic track, situated on the edge of wetlands and seasonal streams. The homeowners were previous clients and dreamt of having a retreat in the Sierras away from their home base in Berkeley, CA. Among skiers, bike riders, hikers, and boaters, they found the ideal central location for their home base near Lake Tahoe. The home is organized as a series of linked spaces, each providing a unique sensory experience and connection to different parts of the site, both vertically and horizontally. The design includes extensive use of glass to create a true indoor/outdoor connection and maximize natural light. At the center of the site are two large fir trees, which the building respectfully wraps around in an L shape to create a focal point in the landscaped courtyard. A refined, context-driven palette of natural materials including cedar, oak, fir, and steel is used to harmoniously blend in among the surroundings. The construction includes advanced details such as thermally broken steel beams supporting layered roof planes engineered to hold snow rather than shed it. Designed to resist significant load, we exposed the steel structure as a recurring element in the interior spaces. The resulting columns and support beams contribute to the familiar design aspects of each room and provide a better understanding of how the building was constructed. The second floor features cantilevered volumes that reach out into the nearby evergreen limbs, likening the experience to being in a tree house. The house incorporates features such as radiant heating, solar panels, and operable windows for passive cooling. Fire safety measures include the use of naturally fire-resistant materials, a Class A roof construction, sprinklers, and drought-tolerant landscaping beyond the defensible space.