 | “My number-one trick is combining high and low contrasting materials to create drama. I love a dark wall with a limestone surround to make the —Bonnie Ammon, Bonnie Ammon Interiors |
 | “If the budget allows us to change out the fireplace mantel, we like to use natural stone of all kinds. For an existing wood mantel, we might change the surround tile and hearth materials. Sometimes a fireplace can become a star with only paint and a great piece of artwork or a mirror hanging above it.” —Jason Claire, Interior Matter |
 | “We love a classic fireplace with paneling and painted moldings. White paint is always a good choice, but we also love using an unexpected color. Styling the mantel with sophisticated accents and a whimsical touch helps complete the look.” —Jamie Merida, Jamie Merida InteriorsPHOTO: Stylish Productions |
 | “There are lots of ways to accentuate a fireplace: paint, architectural details, stone, mantel details and more. As the fireplace is typically the centerpiece of the room, I try to make it a superstar.”—Laura Fox, Laura Fox Interior Design, LLC |
 | “Don’t just focus on the fireplace; incorporating the whole wall into the fireplace design will draw the eye and create a focal point. Full bed stone, marble slabs and mother-of-pearl mosaic tile are my favorite materials for fireplace surrounds. I love a hand-hewn timber floating mantel or painted wood with brackets on paneling—or no mantel at all when you are going sleek and modern.”—Cathy Purple Cherry, AIA, LEED AP, CAS, Purple Cherry Architects |
 | Barbara Hawthorn, Barbara Hawthorn Interiors
PHOTO: Kenneth M. Wyner Photography |
 | Melanie Whittington, Whittington Design Studio
PHOTO: Helen Norman |
 | Laura Hildebrandt, Interiors by LH
PHOTO: Angela Newton Roy Photography |
 | Joyce Pearl, Interior Concepts, Inc.
PHOTO: Geoffrey Hodgdon Photography |
 | Josh Hildreth, Josh Hildreth Interiors |
 | "As a mom, I understand the desire for interiors that look nice but also are kid- and dog-proof. Things happen and furniture will wear over time, so I tend to mix durable upholstered items with some kid-friendly pieces: poufs, floor pillows, inexpensive accent tables…and strong surfaces such as stone.”—Laura Fox, Laura Fox Interior Design, LLC |
 | “Invest in high-quality, comfortable upholstered furniture and original art. Items from O’Henry House or A. Rudin will last a lifetime—and I have yet to meet a client who has ever lost a piece of art to a rambunctious toddler.”—Josh Hildreth, Josh Hildreth InteriorsDesign Services: Interiors and Architecture | PHOTO: Josh Hildreth Interiors |
 | “I rely on hard-working performance fabrics. Not only do they look beautiful, but they clean up with water against red wine, ink and anything else. It’s like insurance for your furniture.”—Laura Hildebrandt, Interiors by LH
PHOTO: Robert Radifera Photography |
 | “Convertibility is key in rec rooms. Opt for cocktail ottomans that double as tables or seating; I like tables that can expand to seat more for meals and be made smaller for games or puzzles. Consider flow, as rec rooms need circulation for activities. Also, closed storage will make a rec room feel cohesive rather than like a mixed-use environment.”—Annie Kersey, Purple Cherry Architects
PHOTO: David Burroughs |
 | “The best trick for family-friendly spaces is durable fabric. We use outdoor fabrics and put faux leather on chair seats with a sophisticated pattern or texture on the outside where there’s less wear-and-tear. In all family-oriented spaces, we focus the impact on unreachable spots like walls and ceilings where wall treatments, art and lighting can take center stage.”—Melanie Whittington, Whittington Design Studio |
 | Bonnie Ammon, Bonnie Ammon Interiors |
 | Joyce Pearl, Interior Concepts, Inc.
PHOTO: Geoffrey Hodgdon Photography |
 | Sarita Simpson and Jason Claire, Interior Matter |
 | Jamie Merida, Jamie Merida Interiors
PHOTO: Stylish Productions |
 | Barbara Hawthorn, Barbara Hawthorn Interiors
PHOTO: Kenneth M. Wyner Photography |
 | Pillows are the jewelry in a room. I prefer 75-percent feather/25-percent down for a soft pillow that holds its shape. In groupings, I like larger pillows with small prints behind smaller ones with large prints. I avoid hyper-matched patterns. Antique textiles or artist-made weaves are sensational.—Josh Hildreth, Josh Hildreth Interiors |
 | Pillows can make or break a room, providing the color impact that ties an entire space together. When selecting sizes, keep scale in mind. And don’t be afraid of shapes, like a ball or lumbar pillow to break up the squares on a sectional or bed.—Britt Devereaux, Interior Concepts, Inc. |
 | On a couch, I typically layer a 22-inch square with a smaller square in two complementary patterns. The front pillow is the statement piece. Try fringe, tassels or roping, and explore patterns you might not use on large-scale furniture. Don’t select materials that are too similar to your couch fabric.—Cathy Purple Cherry, AIA, LEED AP, CAS, Purple Cherry Architects |
 | The key to accent pillows is to employ different scales, patterns and textures while maintaining some symmetry. We usually use two pillows of the same size and layer a smaller size or lumbar in front. We add interest with unusual shapes or embellished trims.—Melanie Whittington, Whittington Design Studio |
 | Pillows are an opportunity to splurge on luxurious textiles or incorporate a bit of whimsy. Consider texture, as it elevates a space. We introduce texture through fabric or trim.—Jamie Merida, Jamie Merida Interiors |
 | Sarita Simpson and Jason Claire, Interior Matter |
 | Laura Fox, Laura Fox Interior Design, LLC |
 | Laura Hildebrandt, Interiors by LH, LLC |
 | Barbara Hawthorn, Barbara Hawthorn Interiors |
 | Bonnie Ammon, Bonnie Ammon Interiors |
James McDonald Associate Architects masterminds a custom home on a mountain in Central Pennsylvania. See More... James McDonald Associate Architects PC
Randall Kipp Architecture takes cues from traditional Tidewater vernacular in a contemporary Chesapeake Bay residence. See More... Randall Kipp Architecture, Inc.
Neumann Lewis Buchanan devises a retreat in the Blue Ridge inspired by its stunning setting. See More... Neumann Lewis Buchanan Architects
CARNEMARK design + build infuses a traditional abode with modern elements—inside and out. See More... CARNEMARK design + build
SPIRE Architecture breathes new life into a bland split-level abode. See More... SPIRE Architecture
Kurt Shepard, AIA, and Craig Martin, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, principals of SPIRE Architecture, transformed a dark, dated split-level into a light-filled, functional home with improved circulation and curb appeal. With TaylorCraft Builders, they devised three pavilion-like additions to the existing house; one, located above the garage, accommodates a pantry and laundry area while another streams light into the foyer, now open to the floor above. The third sits atop an octagonal volume with a new entry door set at a 45-degree angle to the home; this approach orients it to the side garden as well as the front path. Expansive windows reveal streamlined, reorganized spaces that foster connectivity. “The pavilions bring a sense of cohesion, in addition and contrast to the existing rooflines,” Martin notes. “All blend to create a pleasing rhythm as you take in the façade and then the welcoming interior.”
SPIRE Architecture
121 Cathedral Street, Suite 3B, Annapolis MD 21401
410-212-6790 • spirearch.com
Clients in suburban Maryland reached out to CARNEMARK design+build to modernize their Colonial-style home using low-maintenance materials and clean lines. Updated interior spaces include a monochromatic kitchen with minimalist appeal; a refined foyer and staircase; a sleek home office; a statement-making powder room; and a modern overhaul of the upstairs bathrooms.
To create a contemporary façade that would blend with the traditional neighborhood, vertical, white cementitious fiberboard was selected; it contrasts with new shutterless, black, aluminum-clad windows. An updated front entry features a chunky, asymmetrical composite-wood overhang and gray-painted slab door with a single-panel sidelight. A matching gray up-down sconce, vertical stainless-steel mail slot and oversized house numbers complete the modern makeover.
CARNEMARK design + build
7550 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 120, Bethesda, MD 20814
301-657-5000 • carnemark.com
Clients with a bucolic property overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains tapped Andrew Lewis, AIA, a principal at Neumann Lewis Buchanan Architects, to design a light-filled second home for them that would harmonize with the landscape and take advantage of the spectacular views. They wished it to be suitable for multi-generational gatherings, with an airy, sunlit studio for creating art.
Embracing local vernacular, Lewis selected fieldstone, board siding and copper—expressed in porches, gables and varying rooflines that mimic the textures and forms of homes that grow over time. Vistas are captured though a rhythm of openings and period authenticity is reinforced through detailing and woodwork. An old barn was repurposed as a gallery and workspace; its original frame and timber elements were retained or reproduced.
Neumann Lewis Buchanan Architects
Washington, DC - 202-775-4881 • Middleburg, VA - 540-687-3917
nlbarchitects.com
Tapped to design a modern, waterfront home, Randall Kipp imparted a modern twist to classic forms with transparent, gabled rooflines, open spaces and a steel framework wrapped in glass strong enough to withstand hurricane-force winds. “The building pays homage to its site,” Kipp explains. “The floor-to-ceiling glass panels provide views of the Chesapeake as well as of waving fields of grasses and grains—it’s a bridge between two ecosystems.”
The residence nests into its surroundings on a raised, earthen plinth that elevates it to take better advantage of the views and also creates a presence on the horizon. A material palette of glass, porcelain tile, concrete and cedar, employed on both the interior and exterior surfaces, conveys a streamlined, minimalist effect.
Randall Kipp Architecture, Inc.
81 King Carter Drive, Irvington, VA 22480
804-438-6287 • kipparchitecture.com
Clients with a mountaintop homesite in Central Pennsylvania turned to architect James McDonald to design a dream home for them that would capture picturesque views from every direction. “Siting the home proved the biggest challenge,” recounts McDonald of the process. “We decided to let morning light flood the family room and kitchen while the dining room captures the sunset. This layout ensures that light reaches the main living spaces no matter the time of day.”
The farmhouse-style residence boasts livable interiors with seamless connectivity to the outdoors. The owners’ suite and open-plan living spaces open out to a shared porch. Soaring, 13-foot ceilings in the family room combine with high windows flanking a stone fireplace to create a dynamic space where the family love to gather.
James McDonald Associate Architects PC
10135 Colvin Run Road, Suite 200, Great Falls, VA 22066
703-757-0036 • jamesmcdonaldarchitects.com
 | Fresh PerspectiveMcHale Landscape Design gives a dated property in Great Falls a new lease on life |
 | Garden SpotKane Landscapes creates an elegant garden to complement a Leesburg, Virginia, estate |
 | Stylish SettingFine Landscapes transforms a small infill lot to complement a chic custom home in McLean |
 | Formal PlanRoger Clapp, APLD, LCA, of Sisson Landscapes conceives an elegant garden in Great Falls |
 | Treetop OasisPristine Acres creates a dream multi-feature backyard retreat on a wooded Great Falls property |
What was the scope of the project?
The clients’ vision was a backyard oasis with an “in the trees” appearance, aided by the naturally steep slope of their property. They wanted a complete outdoor living space featuring a full-size pool with an auto cover; a pavilion with a fireplace, storage and a bathroom; a lounging area; and a fire pit.
List the hardscape materials and plantings used.
Fiberon composite decking, silver travertine and flagstone. We also selected native plants that require minimal maintenance.
What challenges did the project pose?
The biggest challenge was in designing and constructing the pool and pavilion, as they had to be built 10 feet above ground. Because of the extremely sloped site, custom structural engineering was required to build and hold the weight of the pool and surrounding design. The finished landscape is breathtaking.
FACTS + STATS
Pristine Acres offers custom landscape design and construction. The firm has been in business for 14 years and employs a staff of 10 to execute 15 to 20 projects a year, ranging in price from $350,000 to $2,000,000.
Pristine Acres
10130 Colvin Run Road, Suite D
Great Falls, Virginia 22066
877-333-5651
pristineacres.com
What was the clients’ vision for their property?
They sought a formal, terraced garden to showcase her rose collection and allow for entertaining. Each terrace serves as a discrete garden space, defined by hedges.
What are some highlights of the landscape?
A lawn terrace is centered on a reflecting pool; a keyhole garden offers an armillary sphere as a focal point; and a rose parterre is anchored by arbors. The formal garden is separated from a woodland area by an aerial hedge of fastigiate hornbeams.
List the hardscape materials that were used.
Thermal-finished bluestone for step treads, wall caps and countertops; Pennsylvania bluestone for patios; pea gravel for secondary walkways; and cobblestone for edging.
What plantings separate the garden spaces?
We incorporated European beech hedges, aerial hedges of hornbeam and dappled willow. More than 350 boxwoods provide further structure.
FACTS + STATS
Sisson Landscapes, a full-service design-build
company, has been in business for more than 25 years; its staff of 40 executes 20 to 30 projects a year ranging in price from $40,000 to $1 million.
Sisson Landscapes
10120 Colvin Run Road
Great Falls, Virginia 22066
703-759-2012
SissonLandscapes.com
Describe the scope of the project?
Fine Landscapes made the most of a small lot with a landscape plan that encompassed a spacious screened pavilion, plunge pool and patio.
What was the plant and material palette?
Hanover Architectural Appian random pavers on the patio and around the pool are accented by flagstone coping. The pool is a Latham fiberglass pool and adorned with four deck jets that serve as a water feature. Shrubs and perennials provide three-season color in a palette that
emphasizes white on green.
Talk about the screened pavilion.
Conceived by Harrison Design, the pavilion reflects the clean-lined style of the homeowner, designer Tracy Morris, and provides a transition from indoor to outdoor spaces, which were designed in the same clean, crisp style.
What challenges did the project pose?
Primarily that of limited space, which we overcame through a sensible design strategy.
FACTS + STATS
Fine Landscapes has been in business for 43 years.
Its staff of 100 executes more than 100 projects a year, in the price range of $100,000+. Projects include all aspects of design-build.
Fine Landscapes
21558 Stonetree Court
Sterling, Virginia 20166
703-421-7441
finelandscapes.com
What was the scope of the project?
Clients completing construction on their custom home turned to Alan Blalock, RLA, of Kane Landscapes to design and install a structured yet relaxing garden centered on a picturesque fountain. Paths encourage strolling while benches enjoy views of the garden and its bucolic surroundings.
What challenges did you encounter?
The rear yard sloped away from the house and required more than 3,600 cubic yards of clean fill soil to allow for a level garden area. The granite fountain weighs over 12,000 pounds; it was imported and customs delays meant that it had to be craned in piece by piece after the garden was completed.
List hardscape materials and plantings.
We used a mix of broken bluestone, large bluestone slabs, cobblestone and decorative river stone. Boxwood provides structure for roses, European hornbeams, Japanese cryptomeria, deodar cedar, crape myrtle and perennials.
FACTS + STATS
Kane Landscapes has been designing and installing landscapes for 36 years. Its staff of 52 completes about 30 projects a year, ranging in price from $50,000 to more than $1 million.
Kane Landscapes
105 Douglas Ct.
Sterling, Virginia 20165
703-803-3146
kanelandscapes.com
What was the scope of the project?
We were asked to rejuvenate the landscape with an emphasis on materials and craftsmanship. McHale landscape architect Anthony Cusat combined travertine walks and patios; a cedar pergola; granite cobblestones; and lush plantings. The pool was renovated with an enlarged sunshelf while the spa was rebuilt. A river rock water wall is an architectural focal point at this updated poolscape.
List the hardscape materials and plantings you selected.
Plantings include Japanese maple, tree-form hydrangea, sweetbay magnolia, boxwood, astilbe and liriope.
What challenges did the project pose?
Renovating existing hardscape walls to seamlessly integrate into the new design was challenging. The client wanted the project to look as if was done at the time the house was built, matching the architectural details while updating the style.
FACTS + STATS
With a staff of 300 executing 50 projects a year, McHale Landscape Design offers one-stop shopping for residential design/build landscape architecture, with in-house carpentry and masonry, maintenance and aftercare.
McHale Landscape Design
6212 Leapley Road
Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
301-599-8300
mchalelandscape.com
