“Lexon” showcases 18th-century single-pile design with Flemish bond brickwork and classic Georgian influences.

“Lexon”, also known as the Burris-Brockmeyer Farm, in located in Queen Anne County on the outskirts of Centreville. “Lexon” is listed in both the Maryland Heritage Trust and the US National Register of Historic Places for its being an excellent example of a “single pile” (rectangular floor plan, one-room deep) house. The original part of the house is the two-story brick structure that was painted white at some point in its long life. Lexon personifies the range of the county’s colonial residential styles from the Georgian manor houses to the story and a half houses of successful farmers. As befitting a blend of styles, the original  house was simply detailed with window headers of a rowlock row below a jack arch and a square section water table. 

From it’s original layout to the 1989 additions, Lexon tells a story of historic evolution, including the wood-framed wing and hipped roof porch.

This photograph was taken in 1989 and shows how “Lexon” changed through the centuries with additions of a wood framed wing and the hipped roof porch. The house’s orientation changed too- in the late 18th century, there was no bridge over the Corsica River so the long approach to the house was by land. In the early 1800’s, the house’s orientation changed to the street approach.

The gabled roof and one-room-deep floor plan highlight the home’s symmetry and historic simplicity.

My visit was in the early afternoon when the massive trees cast wide areas of shade onto the lawn. As I drove around the house, the side elevation came into view, showing its simple gable roof massing and one-room deep floor plan. The back door stoop’s steps lead to the lawn facing the road. The blend of the original reddish brick and the later paint layer adds texture and character to the facades. The small structure attached to the house is the exterior access to the basement. 

Massive oaks shade the walk to the thoughtfully recessed addition, which complements the original house with a respectful nod to 21st-century design.

After I parked my car, I paused under the overhanging branches of a massive oak tree to study the juxtaposition of the original brick structure of Flemish bond brick and the addition that was built in 2000. The addition is connected to the house by a short passage and the new wing’s perpendicular orientation is set back in homage to the original house. The addition’s one room deep plan and gable roof echoes the original house’s massing  but its exterior color palette and materials of brick, siding and a red metal roof clearly identify it as a 21st century addition. 

The gable-roofed addition overlooks the lush pool area, framed by the surrounding mature trees.

The side wall of the addition overlooks the large pool that is surrounded by fencing and mature trees. The pool area is connected to the addition by the shed roofed screened porch.

A quaint playhouse, nestled along the wooded edge, evokes fond memories of simpler times.

How can one resist the charm of a diminutive scale? Strolling around the cleared grounds of this 10 acre haven of peace and privacy, I soon discovered several birdhouses and this charming playhouse tucked into the enclosure of the woods along the lawn. No doubt the next owners’ children or grandchildren will enjoy this cozy hide-a-way!

The slate blue paneled entry is graced with Federal-style trim and a hand-crafted “U”-shaped staircase.

I began my tour of the house at the foyer. The paneled slate blue entry door is the mirror image of the entry door at the opposite wall and I admired the elegant simplicity of the “U”-shaped stair that rises to the attic level.  The trim and moldings introduce the classic Federal and Greek Revival interior detailing and the beautiful pine flooring in this original wing of the house.  The foyer’s wide wall opening frames the view of the living room.

Classic windows and chair rail detailing enhance the proportional elegance of this serene living room.

The elegant room’s white upholstered furnishings stand out against the deep slate blue walls. I admired how the 9/6 windows with their picture frame molding rest on the top of the chair rail so it becomes a continuous band around the room and the transparency of the coffee table’s glass top over the Oriental rug.

A clever arched doorway under the staircase complements the room’s Georgian-inspired architectural symmetry.

The dining room’s color palette echoes the living room’s slate blue walls with white trim. An arched opening is cleverly tucked under the stair landing to access  the foyer. I admired the mix of antiques and the table’s contemporary glass top that maintains the room’s spatial volume and highlights the Oriental rug. The period chandelier is the perfect finishing touch.

The family room’s bespoke millwork and warm hardwood flooring accentuate the open layout of this inviting transitional space.

From the original part of the house, a wide doorway from the dining room leads to a single loaded hall that connects the original wing to the addition. Off the hall is the laundry and full bath and then the hall ends at this delightful family room that is part of the open plan family-porch-kitchen open plan. I loved the deep olive walls, the white bespoke millwork and the eclectic mix of antiques, especially the chopping block that is now an end table and the breakfast table. The latter has metal ends and two circular metal recesses with a metal strap, placed at diagonal corners that I surmised must have become ashtrays during card games.

The stove pipe fireplace anchors the room’s aesthetic, connecting it seamlessly to the screened porch.

The family room’s black stove pipe fireplace becomes a sculptural element and  I admired how the large vintage poster is aligned with the windows that surround it. The open French doors beckoned me into the adjacent screened porch.

Wide-screened panels, bluestone flooring, and natural materials make this an idyllic indoor-outdoor retreat.

Not surprisingly, the screened porch was my fave room for its wide screened panels, the stained wood slat ceiling that follows the angle of the sloped rafters and the random bluestone flooring, perfectly scaled for the size of the room. I especially admired how the horizontal  trim was coordinated with the height of the sleek contemporary furnishings so there are unobstructed panoramic views of the pool. The porch’s close proximity to the pool makes is a convenient spot for respite from too much sun. In the evening, the carriage lamps must cast a soft glow to encourage relaxation.

Functional yet warm, the kitchen features Craftsman-style cabinetry and a central island for entertaining.

The open plan layout gives the kitchen a long vista to the Family Room. The width of the kitchen accommodates cabinets on both exterior walls plus an island with bar stools with ample room for circulation. The kitchen is this cook’s dream with its warm wood Craftsman style cabinets, granite countertops, farmhouse sink and stainless steel appliances. 

French doors and a thoughtfully placed built-in desk area offer both convenience and utility in the thoughtfully designed kitchen.

I could well imagine sitting at the built-in desk area to write my House of the Week columns. The countertop could also be a great surface for crafts or a buffet for entertaining. Next to the kitchen are two storage rooms for pantry items or general storage. Recessed French doors open onto the sidewalk that leads to the parking area for convenient unloading of groceries from one’s car. 

Wrap-around windows flood this private second-floor office with natural light and sweeping views.

Behind the Family Room’s millwork is a staircase to the Primary Ensuite that spans the length of the family room and kitchen below. At the top of the stair is this cozy space that is furnished as an office. With its wrap-around windows that offer panoramic bird’s eye views of the landscape, it could also be a sitting room for the Primary Ensuite. 

Custom millwork blends practicality and character in this potential sitting room or creative workspace.

The wall of bespoke millwork with a mix of cabinet doors with vintage wrought-iron hardware and open shelving offers ample storage for office needs. The sofa and chest of drawers could also provide extra sleeping space for guests.

Sanctuary vibes flood the primary bedroom thanks to the tray ceiling which, adds volume, while rich wood finishes create warmth in this restful retreat.

The Primary bedroom has spatial volume from its tray ceiling and the white ceiling and walls reflect the sunlight from the windows in the gable wall. The wood pencil post bedframe and the other wood furnishings add warmth to the space. I especially liked how the bedframe’s posts fit perfectly against the high knee wall. The blue accent pillows pick up the blue from the large rug over the beautiful curly maple flooring in this serene space for relaxation and rest.

White beams and blue diamond accents bring a fresh, open feel to this spacious, spa-like bath.

The short hall off the stair passes the spacious Primary Bath and a walk-in closet and two other walk-in closets.  The bathroom’s white pitched ceiling and white walls make the space feel even larger than it is and the blue diamond tiles are colorful accents. Opposite the tub are cabinetry with dual lavatories and space for a dressing table.    

The landing’s thoughtful paneling and natural light make it more than just a passage between floors.

To explore the second floor, I circled back to the foyer and went up the stair that ends at an enlarged landing connecting the two guest bedrooms. The stair continues up to the attic level. The vertical paneling, table and lamp and the window at the landing enhances the space to make it more than just a landing. The vista to the adjacent bedroom’s fireplace enticed me to tour that room first.

Original wide plank floors and a refinished fireplace convey the timeless charm of this second-floor sanctuary.

This spacious guest bedroom is located over the dining room so it has windows at all exterior walls. The door divides the spacious room into sleeping and sitting areas. The gorgeous wide plank wood floors and the original paneling surround of the fireplace adds a special character to this charming room.

The vintage-inspired design, with wainscoting and deep blue tile floors, balances elegance and function.

The hall bath’s compact arrangement serves both guest rooms. The vintage style pedestal lavatory, tiled walls, wainscot and floors, and the window creates a very appealing space. I especially admired the deep blue color of the tile flooring.  

Light blue walls, cozy fireplace and abundant natural light define the large second guest room.

The other guest bedroom is located over the living room and its light blue walls and Oriental rugs create a serene space for rest and relaxation.  Like the other guest bedroom, there are windows on all three exterior walls and a fireplace. I especially liked the iron bedframe that I believe is a Charles P. Rogers design.

It is always a special pleasure to feature one of the Eastern Shore’s historic houses, especially a US National Register of Historic Places property. Past and present coexist in this rare jewel dating from the 18th century. The house and grounds have been lovingly cared for by the owners who appreciate their being stewards of a historic house.  Classic Federal and Greek Revival interior details, preserved pine flooring, mantels, moldings, original partitioning and paneled walls and the beautiful staircase that rises to three levels are design elements not often found today. The addition provides an open plan family-screened porch-kitchen layout for today’s lifestyle. The fenced pool, luscious gardens and open expanse of lawn for outdoor enjoyment are surrounded by dense trees that stretch to the boundary of the 10 acre property to provide privacy. The property also has a large barn/garage with a partial second floor, as well as an attic and basement for storage.  “Lexon” offers the best of historic context and modern conveniences-what a treasure!

For more information about this property, contact Biana Arentz at Coldwell Banker Realty, (410) 263-8686 (o), 410-490-0332 (c) or [email protected]. For more photographs and pricing, visit www.bianaarentz.com , “Equal Housing Opportunity”. 

Photography by HomeVisit, Craig Westerman, www.homevisit.com , 833-643-0445

Historic Photo by Ronald L. Andrews, courtesy of the Department of Planning, Maryland Historic Trust, Maryland’s National Register Properties.

Contributor Jennifer Martella has pursued dual careers in architecture and real estate since she moved to the Eastern Shore in 2004. She has reestablished her architectural practice for residential and commercial projects and is a real estate agent for Meredith Fine Properties. She especially enjoys using her architectural expertise to help buyers envision how they could modify a potential property. Her Italian heritage led her to Piazza Italian Market, where she hosts wine tastings every Friday and Saturday afternoons.

The 1889 façade boasts Victorian design elements, including stained glass windows, a gambrel roof, and intricate finials.

The original meaning of the adjective “high” meant importance or superior rank. The term “high street” first appeared in use in the 12th century as the name given to an urban street that became the main retail corridor of a town. It was also the widest street in order to make it easier for farmers to move livestock to market. It was important for retail establishments with a High Street address to have distinctive architecture to entice shoppers within. 

In 1889, S. Frank Smith, retained  Walter Pippin, a second generation builder, to design and build a distinctive three-story building on Chestertown’s High Street. The brick building’s first floor would contain a store with large and tall windows  for product display. The angled sides of the windows would draw shoppers to the entrance door, protected from the weather by both its recessed location and a shallow shed roof supported by brackets.   

The top two floors would be Mr. Smith’s residence. As befitting the residential architecture of that late Victorian/Second Empire period, the upper floors were highly detailed. The second floor center windows’  featured solid panels below stained glass panels, flanked by single windows with an upper stained glass panel and a slender vertical muntin below. Below the windows, a  shallow balcony spanned across the front façade with a thin black metal handrail. The balcony was not only decorative- one could open one of the windows and climb over the bottom panel to sit on the balcony. The gambrel roof was clad in slate with finials and at the third floor a pair of conjoined gable windows capped with a conical gable and the single triangular dormer windows were also capped with finials. 

This 1910 photograph dates from the time the building was the Brambles Harness Shop, with the original façade as it was built in 1889.  

A mid-century renovation dramatically altered the original façade, replacing key architectural details.

Regrettably, in the mid-1960s, the building had to endure a complete front façade change. The center door was relocated and the main floor-to-ceiling bay display windows were replaced with an angled wall of glass beneath an oversized Chippendale-style portal.  The original second-floor windows were removed and replaced with 6/6 windows, and the third-floor dormer windows’ finials were removed. As a preservationist, I am glad that at least the third-floor gables and windows were left intact!

Architect John Hutchison’s vision restores the building’s 1889 aesthetic, modernizing the gambrel roof with asphalt shingles.

Luckily, this distinctive building has been transformed back to its 1889 origin by Architect John Hutchison of Chestertown. He graciously shared his design concept to convey the building’s journey from demolition to transformation. The only change of material from the original building is the gambrel roof that is now replaced with rows of architectural asphalt shingles whose color and pattern pay homage to the original slate.

A striking color palette celebrates the building’s historic identity while enhancing its curb appeal.

Fortunately, this building was built next to a wide alley, so the residential upper floors had windows and daylight on all sides of the building. This was important to enable cross ventilation in an era without HVAC but the left side windows were blocked when the adjacent building was constructed. The exterior color palette gives this building great curb appeal-this exquisite gem has long been one of my fave buildings in this part of Chestertown’s Historic District streetscape.

Carefully restored brickwork, arched headers, and carriage lights emphasize the structure’s historic craftsmanship.

The alley elevation shows the partial third floor defined by the gambrel roof shape. This side of the building has been carefully enhanced by restoring the brick façade, refurbishing or and replacing windows and installing a rhythm of stylish period surface mounted carriage lights. I especially admired the color range of the brick and the double arched brick headers above the windows. The improvements have created a very pleasant pedestrian thoroughfare from the building to parking areas at Cannon Street. 

An adaptable main floor concept suits diverse commercial needs while preserving the building’s character.

Having designed the building’s exteriors,  John Hutchison focused upon the interiors. This floor plan and perspectives illustrate his imaginative design to attract a commercial tenant for the main floor of the building. The space could easily accommodate food related businesses such as an Artisan Bakery, Chef’s Table Experience, Culinary Collective, Culinary Studio, Farm to Fork Bistro, Food Incubator, Morning Latte & Loaf Bar, Pop-Up Restaurant Space, Seasonal Tasting Room, or Shared Commercial Kitchen. Other uses could include a Custom Cobbler Boutique, Elevated Apothecary Boutique, Holistic Herb and Remedy Studio, Private Practice (with living quarters above) or Tech-Media Studio. What a great opportunity to live downtown and to have a tenant on the main floor!

Original windows flood the living room with natural light, highlighting refinished wood floors and an airy layout.

The new concept for the building retains the original two bedroom, two bath apartment that spans the depth of the second floor and the partial third floor bedroom ensuite. At the alley side of the building is a stair to the apartment that opens into a large foyer. From the foyer, a hall along the side wall of the apartment connects the guest bedroom, primary ensuite, kitchen-dining room and the living room. Behind the foyer is a full bath for the guest bedroom.   

The focal point of the living room at the corner of the building facing High Street are the front wall’s windows, now in their original locations as described in John Hutchison’s design concept drawings. Along with the side windows facing the alley, daylight spills into the room over the beautifully refinished wood floors. The color palette of the baseboard, window trim and off-white walls are a serene blank slate for the next resident to add their own touches.  

The preserved fireplace mantel adds charm to this transitional space, leading to the modern kitchen.

The spacious living room has the original fireplace’s mantel. Since the chimney is still intact, perhaps the chimney could be outfitted with a gas fireplace. The door at the rear of the living room leads to the stairs to the third floor and behind the stair wall is the kitchen-dining area.

A sleek blend of white cabinetry, quartz countertops, and a functional island defines the contemporary kitchen design.

Mr. Smith would not recognize his kitchen with this stylish renovation, featuring an “L” and island layout, white cabinets, a railroaded tile backsplash, and accents of stainless steel/black glass appliances, as well as countertops of white quartz with subtle gray veining. The island is an extra workspace, and its overhang accommodates bar stools. The tall upper cabinetry, designed for maximum storage, floats just below the underside of the ceiling. The wide 2/2 window at the side wall brings daylight into the space. One has the option to add a dining table and chairs here or in the adjacent living room. 

Thoughtfully preserved architectural features, including frosted windows, enhance the spacious Primary Suite.

Next to the Kitchen-Dining is a laundry room off the hall and the Primary Ensuite’s bathroom.  The hall’s original window was left intact and the window panes were changed to frosted glass since the side wall is now against another building. The spacious Primary Bedroom has a large walk-in closet in the wall opposite the bath. 

Stylish finishes, a glass-enclosed shower, and double vanities position the bath firmly in the 21st century.

The four-piece Primary Bath features a double lavatory cabinet with storage drawers between the sink doors. The neutral deep blue gray cabinetry, stylish lighted mirror, sleek lavatory fittings, cabinetry and glass-walled shower place this bathroom clearly in the 21st century instead of the bath’s original late 19th century! 

Subtle frosted windows and timeless tilework balance privacy and modern design in the guest bath.

Behind the Primary Ensuite is a guest bedroom across the hall from this bathroom with its soaking tub and hand-held shower fitting. The lightly frosted lower panes of the window provide filtered daylight and privacy and I admired the floor tile that is scaled perfectly for this space. 

Natural light streams into the third-floor stairwell, connecting to an expansive private retreat.

The third-floor bedroom ensuite would be my choice if I were lucky to be a guest. Windows on three sides provide sunlight throughout the day. The spacious room that spans the full width and depth of this floor can accommodate both sleeping and sitting areas. 

Unique triangular dormers frame the top-floor suite, creating a dramatic and light-filled sanctuary.

The third-floor ensuite’s exquisite front wall with the center double window between two triangular dormers is not your usual bedroom wall but it adds immeasurable character to this delightful space. The side door leads to a full bath with a shower and a linen closet. Another closet opens against the wall opposite the corner triangular dormer. This private and quiet ensuite offers fab bird’s eye views of the buildings and treetops of Chestertown’s Historic District.  

My architectural thesis project was the revitalization of a block in my hometown’s downtown in the mid 70’s. So many of the storefronts were empty and I designed apartments on the second floor to encourage downtown living and urban revitalization still remains one of my fave design projects. It was a special treat for me to feature this one-of-a kind building that is an outstanding example of how a mixed-use renovated building can be a catalyst for further renovations. The building’s exquisite front façade has been carefully preserved and has recaptured its pride of place in the heart of Chestertown’s Historic District by the careful and creative talent of architect John Hutchison.

This project had a remarkable team, who all felt that the work “was a four-year labor of love to bring this magnificent building back to its original glory.”  Owner/Builder Mark Newman located the original building plans at the Kent County Historical Society, who were also generous with their time and effort. Mark also worked closely with preservationist Elizabeth Beckley to maintain the standards of historical restoration according to the Maryland Historic Trust and the United States Park Service. Mark also praised both architect John Hutchison for being “an amazing partner in this project,” and also Mat Warrington for his skills as a Master Carpenter for the project’s success. 

I hope a tenant for the main floor comes forward soon-Bravissimo to the design team and to the preservation consultant for an outstanding job!

For more information about this property, contact Stacy Kendall, Owner/Broker at Cross Street Realtors, 410-778-3779 (o), 301-443-480-3453(c) or [email protected] . For more photographs and pricing, visit www.csrealtors.com, “Equal Housing Opportunity”. 

Architect:  John Hutchison Architecture, www.johnhutcharch.com , 410-449-0466
Preservation Consultant: Elizabeth Beckle, 410-708-9573
Contractor: Property Owner with Project Foreman and Lead Carpenter Mat Warrington
Steve Buchanan Photography, www.buchananphotography.com, 301-996-7295 

Contributor Jennifer Martella has pursued dual careers in architecture and real estate since she moved to the Eastern Shore in 2004. She has reestablished her architectural practice for residential and commercial projects and is a real estate agent for Meredith Fine Properties. She especially enjoys using her architectural expertise to help buyers envision how they could modify a potential property. Her Italian heritage led her to Piazza Italian Market, where she hosts wine tastings every Friday and Saturday afternoons.

An expansive 4.5-acre lot with 320 feet of waterfront creates a stunning natural canvas.

Today is the 9th anniversary of the debut of my House of the Week Column and since this is the beginning of another new year of columns, it seemed appropriate to feature a new house. This 4.5 acre property with 320 linear feet of shoreline along Peachblossom Creek is located in the newest section of the Cooke’s Hope neighborhood.  On the day of my visit, I drove along the street past large lots and turned on this house’s driveway that meandered through the deep front yard edged with towering evergreens that provide privacy from the adjacent properties. 

Telescoping wings, gabled roofs, and modern Hardie plank siding blend traditional and contemporary design.

The house’s design pays homage to the Eastern Shore rural vernacular of telescoping wings on each side of the main wing. Gables, porches, shed and hipped roofs enliven the façade and I especially liked the detailing of the main gable with vertical battens that end slightly below the window headers. Modern design elements include the thin profile 2/2 windows with very thin vertical muntins, the two-story vertical arrangement of windows and the mix of both vertical and horizontal Hardie plank siding. The hipped front porch metal roof defines the main entrance to the house. 

Wide rear porch overlooks sloping terrain, offering opportunities for landscaped paths to the water’s edge.

The rear elevation has a  deep and spacious porch that creates a charming outdoor room for relaxing with family or friends. Steps lead down to the back yard (now grassed) that slopes down to Peachblossom Creek. The topography from the house to the Creek reminded me of a house I once rented that had a fairly steep topography. The owner’s landscape architect designed a series of switchback paths and at each turn was a water feature, sculpture, or simply a bench to relax amidst the sights and sounds of nature. This sloped portion of this  yard could be similarly transformed to create a path that would end at the water’s edge below. 

Stone column bases and a concrete floor define this low-maintenance, welcoming entry.

As I walked up the concrete steps to the front porch, I admired the texture of the columns’ stone bases and the easy care concrete porch floor. The setback at the front of the porch creates this cozy sitting area for one to relax at the end of the day or to await visitors. 

The two-story foyer features vertical battens and sleek stair detailing that frame the outdoor view.

As I opened the front door, I admired the spatial variety of the two-story foyer, the high wall opening that frames the vista through the living room to the landscape and the dropped beam that frames the dining room at the side. The white ceilings and walls highlight the beautiful 7-1/2” wide light oak flooring that flows through the house. The stair detailing with wood posts and treads and the thin black spindles as an accent also stands out against the backdrop of white walls. The Craftsman detailing of vertical battens at the stair front wall and the door next to the stair whose header projects slightly past the side jamb add character.

Horizontal and vertical wainscot trim harmonizes with expansive windows in the formal dining space.

The dropped beam that defines the edge of the dining room is part of the open plan dining-living-kitchen-morning room area. Since the house is brand-new, it has been very tastefully staged so one can see how well their own furnishings would fit. This dining room’s size could easily accommodate a longer table and more chairs for entertaining or family celebrations.  Along the front wall, horizontal and vertical trim creates a subtle wainscot, with the top trim aligned with the center rail of the windows. The door past the stair leads to an office.

Grid-style trim enhances the quiet, spacious corner office’s architectural texture.

Opposite the Dining Room and across the Foyer is a large “corner” office at the  quietest part of the house. The accent wall of trim adds texture and creates a grid that evokes paneling. 

Quartz-veined fireplace serves as the focal point of this airy living space with clean lines throughout.

Another wide wall opening visually connects the Dining Room to the adjacent Living Room. In the Living Room, sofas and chairs  in neutral tones are grouped around the fireplace with its surround of quartz with subtle veining. 

Wrap-around windows in the open-plan layout seamlessly connect indoor spaces to the surrounding landscape.

Walking into the kitchen, I admired the open plan’s wall offsets with wrap-around windows and doors at the rear wall for panoramic views of the landscape. The gourmet galley kitchen with an island and a farmhouse sink is the hub of the house and places the cook in the center of the action.

The galley kitchen’s custom cabinetry and artisan details highlight functionality and style.

The kitchen is fully equipped with a 48” dual fuel range below a built-in artisan hood, beverage center, stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops and a stylish mix of white and stained cabinetry. I especially liked the trapezoid shape of the pendant lights over the island and the mix of closed upper cabinets and open shelves. 

The doorway on the range wall leads to the mud room, powder room and the three-car garage. 

Practical design combines bench storage, workspace, and laundry facilities in this efficient hub.

I was so envious of this spacious Mud Room with an oversize closet for coats, a bench with open cubbies for boots, a desk for computer work, and the laundry at the end of the room. The large artwork with its perspective of marshes and water is a “window” for this interior room. The door next to the cubbies leads to the three-car garage.

Large windows frame panoramic outdoor views, making this versatile corner room a well-lit retreat.

I walked back into the kitchen to the “Morning Room” that benefits from its corner position for sunlight to penetrate deep into the room throughout the day. If one doesn’t need another dining space, this room with walls infilled with large windows would make a charming Snug or Sunroom.

The expansive covered porch ensures privacy and effortless indoor-outdoor living.

From the Morning Room, a pair of French doors leads to the large covered porch that overlooks the rear yard. The dense wall of mature trees at the side yard  provide privacy from the adjacent property . This charming outdoor room with low maintenance finishes offers ample space for both sitting and dining.

Triple and single windows bathe the wainscot-detailed Primary Bedroom in natural light.

The sumptuous Primary Ensuite spans the depth of the house behind the living room. Both a rear triple window and a side single window provide daylight and views of the landscape. This restful retreat detailed with a wainscot of trim and the fireplace with its quartz surround should please anyone.  I especially liked how the height of the wainscot easily accommodates a high headboard for a seamless look and the Craftsman detail of the three panel door’s header that is found throughout the house.

Thoughtful layout combines dual vanities, a soaking tub, and glass-walled shower in this spa-like retreat.

The Primary Bath’s gets high marks for its layout of the soaking tub in front of the glass walled shower next to the toilet compartment across from the dual lavatories and storage towers. The warmth of the wood cabinetry stands out against the white tones of the room. 

Two daylight-filled compartments offer functional storage with space for personalized design touches.

The large Primary Walk-In Closet has two equal compartments with a window in each area for daylight. The wall between the compartments would be a great spot for artwork or a full length mirror.  

The vertical window arrangement elevates views at every level from the front stair landing.

Having explored the main floor, I walked up the stair to the second floor and enjoyed how the vertical arrangement of windows changes one’s view of the landscape with each step. The wall plane above the Dining Room cries out for a large colorful abstract painting or wall hanging!

Broad picture and operable windows provide unobstructed views of Peachblossom Creek’s landscape.

Only the first floor was staged but I explored the second floor’s layout of three bedroom ensuites and a loft area that could be a sitting room for the bedrooms. This spacious bedroom has a center picture window between single operable units that overlook the rear landscape to Peachblossom Creek.

Neutral tones and sleek cabinetry create a timeless canvas for personalized accents.

Each bathroom has neutral finishes so one can add colorful towels and accessories to suit one’s taste.

Sprawling finished recreation space offers flexibility for entertainment, hobbies, or guests.

This 5002 gsf house includes a lower level with a wide exterior stair at one side of the house. This huge multi-purpose room offers myriad uses and this level also includes a bedroom, full bath and storage rooms. 

New construction with low maintenance exterior materials in the highly desirable Cooke’s Hope neighborhood along Peachblossom Creek;  main level’s amenities include front and rear porches for outdoor enjoyment; open plan living-dining-kitchen-morning room for indoor-outdoor flow and a luxurious main level Primary Suite with a spa shower. The second floor ensuite bedrooms share a sitting room and the walk up basement has a finished recreation room, bedroom and full bathroom along with storage areas. High end flooring, custom cabinetry, trim and lighting fixtures enhance this move-in ready family home. The builder’s inclusion of both batt and blown-in insulation, concrete foundation, 2 x 6 framing, fire suppression system and passive radon mitigation are highlights of the extensive list of high-end materials and products  that make this house an exceptional home.  Bravo!

For more information about this property, contact agent Michael Muren at the Premier Group of Long & Foster Real Estate Inc., 301-945-9010 (o), 301-524-4471 (c) or  [email protected].  For more photographs and pricing, visit, https://buildersnationalcooperative.com/ , “Equal Housing Opportunity”. 

Construction by Laine Street Homes

Photography by  Doug Via, www.dvmedia.com , 240-409-9398 

My heartfelt thanks to the Owners who graciously gave me tours of their exceptional houses, the real estate agents who assisted me and the photographers whose work enhanced my narrative; but most of all to you readers whom I greatly appreciate-here’s to another new year of House of the Week-Jenn Martella 

Contributor Jennifer Martella has pursued dual careers in architecture and real estate since she moved to the Eastern Shore in 2004. She has reestablished her architectural practice for residential and commercial projects and is a real estate agent for Meredith Fine Properties. She especially enjoys using her architectural expertise to help buyers envision how they could modify a potential property. Her Italian heritage led her to Piazza Italian Market, where she hosts wine tastings every Friday and Saturday afternoons.