While designing a custom estate on the Severn River in Annapolis, Purple Cherry Architects also conceived a 2,230-square-foot guest house that reflects the main abode’s modern architecture. “The structures embrace and amplify the surrounding environment, showcasing waterfront views,” recounts principal Cathy Purple Cherry. “Both utilize stone, large-scale glass, standing-seam metal roofs and vertical, nickel-gap siding.” The guest house is composed of three volumes connected by glass links. The center volume harbors a great room, complete with a kitchen and living and dining areas; there’s a guest suite above. Single-story guest suites flank the great room, which spills out to a water-facing deck. Says Purple Cherry, “The owners wanted sweeping views, but also a sense of privacy for themselves and their guests.”

EXPERT INSIGHTS
Notes from Cathy Purple Cherry

• NuCedar and Boral are two of my favorite synthetic siding materials. For roofing, I like metal and wood shakes.
• The most important factors when siting a structure are the landscape, the views and the sun’s path. I rotate the structure or even rooms themselves to frame views or exclude rudimentary ones.
• When a setting experiences excessive wind or sun, we integrate deep overhangs, big porches or bookended exterior spaces to ensure protection.

Architecture & Interior Design: Cathy Purple Cherry, AIA, LEED AP, Purple Cherry Architects, Annapolis, Maryland. Builder: ILEX Construction, Easton, Maryland. Stylist: Helen Crowther.