Washington DC
PERCH house sits on a steep slope bound in the rear by a high retaining wall, overlooking trees and city. The Owners, whose first child was born during the design process, wanted to enlarge the house for their growing family, and take better advantage of the unique site. The solution was to reorganize the interior completely, creating a better spatial sequence and opening up the first floor as one large space that connects to a new deck facing the rear yard.
The addition is focused on one side of the house, where the views are most dramatic, and consists of a series of vertical volumes, with Dining Room in front, new staircase along the side slope, and new Den and Master Suite in the rear. Each volume creates framed views of various shapes and sizes, with the full-glass spaces along the back of the house seeming to “float” above the site. The basement is completely refinished as a play space for the children, connecting to a large outdoor area under the new deck, shaded from the summer sun. The interior is open and warm, with light maple floors and cabinetry, and abundant natural light. Exterior materials include Shou Sugi Ban charred wood, Viroc composite board, and stucco. An accessory dwelling unit for rental or live-in nanny is included in the basement, with a separate side entrance for privacy.
photos: Anice Hoachlander
contractor: LJM Development
millwork: Mersoa Woodwork
custom steel: Metal Specialties
PERCH house sits on a steep slope bound in the rear by a high retaining wall, overlooking trees and city. The Owners, whose first child was born during the design process, wanted to enlarge the house for their growing family, and take better advantage of the unique site. The solution was to reorganize the interior completely, creating a better spatial sequence and opening up the first floor as one large space that connects to a new deck facing the rear yard.
The addition is focused on one side of the house, where the views are most dramatic, and consists of a series of vertical volumes, with Dining Room in front, new staircase along the side slope, and new Den and Master Suite in the rear. Each volume creates framed views of various shapes and sizes, with the full-glass spaces along the back of the house seeming to “float” above the site. The basement is completely refinished as a play space for the children, connecting to a large outdoor area under the new deck, shaded from the summer sun. The interior is open and warm, with light maple floors and cabinetry, and abundant natural light. Exterior materials include Shou Sugi Ban charred wood, Viroc composite board, and stucco. An accessory dwelling unit for rental or live-in nanny is included in the basement, with a separate side entrance for privacy.
photos: Anice Hoachlander
contractor: LJM Development
millwork: Mersoa Woodwork
custom steel: Metal Specialties
