Wood and stucco siding clad an abode conceived by Wiedemann Architects. PHOTO: Anice Hoachlander
Phil Leibovitz, Sandy Spring Builders | Brad Pryor, Horizon Builders | Maryam Tabrizchi, AIA, NCARB, Elie Ben Architecture, LLC | Greg Wiedemann, FAIA, Wiedemann Architects
“A thermally controlled, wood-clad or aluminum product
is best for our region. Ideally, there will be a
screened area outside so that you can control insects.”
—Maryam Tabrizchi
“The advantage of pocket doors is that they can
disappear visually. Robust hardware and a system
that controls water are musts; pocket doors can bring
water inside the wall. Folding doors tend to be more expensive
because the mechanism is complicated.”
—Greg Wiedemann
“It used to be only NanaWall made expansive,
glass folding doors, but now all manufacturers make them.
Sierra Pacific and Western Window Systems do a modern,
minimal look; aluminum profiles may be thinner than wood ones.”
—Phil Leibovitz
“We’re using a lot of Accoya, a wood-siding product
that’s treated for rot-resistance and has unique coloration—
a silvery tint that gives it a weathered, beachy feel
but looks a bit modern.”
—Brad Pryor
“We predominantly work with Hardie siding—shiplap,
battens, nickel gap. We also like real stucco
and painted brick with stone accents.”
—Phil Leibovitz
“Less costly than Accoya is Boral, a poly-ash material
that creates custom looks on siding and trim.
We’re using Boral nickel-gap siding on two new homes now.”
—Greg Wiedemann
“The building envelope; an initial outlay will return investment
over time. I prioritize quality windows and good insulation.
Next would be an upgrade to the home’s mechanical systems.”
—Greg Wiedemann
“The kitchen, because it’s the heart of the home.
People are also spending heavily on indoor-outdoor flex spaces.”
—Brad Pryor
“Splurge on getting a good architect who can make you
a beautiful and efficient design. Builders and subcontractors
are also very important; some say ‘spend
on the finishes,’ but I believe in getting it all installed correctly.”
—Maryam Tabrizchi