Arlington House

In lieu of a knock-down approach, the original house was preserved to take advantage of cost savings. The original ‘50s style Rambler was generously sized to accommodate all desired new spaces. Substantial excavation and masonry costs could be saved by reusing the existing basement foundations. Lastly, the terraced stone patios, along the East sloping rear yard, are valuable site amenities abutting the private woodland edge of the yard, just a stone’s through from the Potomac River.

Existing bedrooms were relocated to a new 2nd floor level which insured room for ample new ground floor living space without need to expand beyond the existing footprint. A gracious entry and formal stair hall mark the formal spaces facing toward the street. Commonly used family living spaces are located in the area freed up by former bedrooms. The family room and screen porch face east taking advantage of morning light and extended views of the oversized lower yard. A fold-away glass wall opens the family room to the outside during agreeable weather.