by Ed Ball Landscape Architecture
A garden in the Bahamas makes the most of a small lot with hardscape and lush plantings
Ed Ball Landscape Architecture was hired by clients in the Bahamas to design a garden on a small lot surrounded by water. Principal, Ed Ball created circulation within the diminutive spaces, making them feel bigger while also linking the property to the water via steps down to the dock.
“We used vertical lines in our design and allowed the adjacent properties to expand the views beyond the property lines,” Ball explains. The landscape features ficus, neem trees and coconut palms framing textured-concrete steppers and coral stone. Strips of synthetic lawn and pavers in the driveway add visual interest.
Ed Ball Landscape Architecture • 703-433-1863 • edballlandscapearchitecture.com
by State of the Art Landscape
State of the Art Landscape designs an elegant backyard escape complete with a pavilion and pool
Clients tasked State of the Art Landscape with overhauling their property. The extensive project included design and construction of a swimming pool with a raised spa; a multi-function pavilion with a kitchen, fireplace and pizza oven; stone terrace walls and travertine pool decking; and a custom mahogany gate and estate-level gardens. The deck was renovated and a heated outdoor shower was installed.
The pool is enhanced by a midnight-blue pebble finish and the retaining walls are clad in native Maryland stone. The countertops in the pavilion are made of basalt, which reflects the clients’ modern aesthetic.
State of the Art Landscape • 703-421-3666 • stateoftheartlandscape.com
by Fine Earth Landscape
Symmetry and a simple palette create a refined, elegant garden
Clients with a traditional white-clapboard home requested that Fine Earth Landscape create an all-white garden full of beauty and interest to complement their residence. The results are both elegant and inviting. A pool scape, bordered by white tree-form hydrangea, flows into rectangular flagstone patios rimmed with white Natchez crape myrtle, while dozens of evergreen boxwoods supply year-round structure and color. Flagstone coping surrounds the rectangular pool with a turf border and the hardscape is clean-lined and symmetrical.
The front yard is enhanced by zumi callicarpa crabapple trees and white azalea. The crushed-stone driveway is lined with Belgian granite blocks.
Fine Earth Landscape • 301-972-8810 • fineearth.com
by Fine Landscapes
Fine Landscapes creates an elegant, welcoming pool scape for a home in McLean
A young family hired Fine Landscapes to design a swimming pool and raised spa on their rolling McLean property. The project encompassed a travertine pool terrace; a raised fire pit made of stacked stone; and a koi pond with a stone waterfall built into the existing hillside.
The sloped lot created a challenge. “We used terracing and retaining walls,” recalls principal Charles Owen. “Nearly 40 piers were driven 25 feet into the ground; a structural engineer was brought in to ensure proper depth.”
The gunite swimming pool is clad in glass tile with a Quartzscape finish. Pennsylvania fieldstone with large boulders make up the retaining walls.
Fine Landscapes • 703-421-7441 • finelandscapes.com
by Kane Landscapes
An elaborate pool scape with a serpentine waterslide proves the perfect spot for summertime fun
Kane Landscapes was tapped to create a backyard pool scape with entertaining in mind. The existing lot sloped toward the back of the house, causing poor drainage, so principal Josh Kane tackled this issue by designing deep trenches under the hardscape, behind retaining walls and at the edges of the beds and lawn. The trenches allow water to drain into an existing neighborhood storm-water collection pond.
A 32-foot waterslide is a focal point of the new landscape, where travertine clads the pool surround and patio. Limestone caps top stone retaining walls. A poolside structure houses a fireplace, kitchen, bar and lounge area.
Kane Landscapes • 703-803-3146 • kanelandscapes.com
by McHale Landscape Design
McHale Landscape Design creates a three-story, outdoor-living area with waterfront views
The deck of a Chesapeake Bay waterfront home was outdated and poorly constructed. The owners tapped McHale Landscape Design to construct a three-level, outdoor-living space that would do justice to the spectacular views while providing ample space to entertain.
The new structure encompasses a ground-level, stone-floored lanai paved in full-color-range rectangular Pennsylvania flagstone; a spacious, partially covered first-level deck; and a small second-level deck above it. Both decks are enhanced with PVC architectural details and stainless-steel railings and cables. The stainless cables allow a clearer view of the waterfront vista than traditional pickets.
McHale Landscape Design • 301-599-8300 • mchalelandscape.com
Laura Fox
Laura Fox Interior Design, LLC
laurafoxinteriordesign.com
@laurafoxinteriordesign
The breakfast room is an extension of the kitchen and should be warm and inviting enough to hang out in while the chef is at work. The finishes and textures should complement the kitchen without being overly “matchy.” Hanging a beautiful light fixture will give it personality.
—Laura Fox, Laura Fox Interior Design, LLC
Bountiful Interiors
bountifuldecor.com
facebook.com/jamiemeridabountiful
410-763-8500
Most people use the breakfast room more than the dining room, so why not make it special? Since it’s a small space, you can really amp up the personality. Choose luxurious textiles and stand-out pieces like a unique table or chairs. The color palette will make it cohesive with the kitchen.
—Jamie Merida, Bountiful Interiors
Purple Cherry Architects
purplecherry.com
instagram: @purplecherryarchitects
410-990-1700
Since the kitchen and mudroom often flow together, colors and finishes should be complementary. Mudrooms can be playful. Think white cubbies with their backs painted sky-blue or bold, retro wallpaper. In the breakfast room, the upholstery is your opportunity to make the space pop.
—Cathy Purple Cherry, AIA, LEED AP, CAS, Purple Cherry Architects
Laura Hildebrandt
Interiors by LH, LLC
interiorsbylh.com
@interiorsbylh
571-334-6476
Photo: Jenn Verrier
Each room should have its own personality while giving a nod to adjacent spaces. I like a color palette that runs throughout, with different colors starring. For example, the kitchen may be gray with pink-and-green accents while the mudroom is green with gray-and-pink accents.
—Laura Hildebrandt, IFDA, NKBA, Interiors by LH, LLC
I like to use the same cabinets in the kitchen and mudroom to tie the two spaces together, then add fun wall covering or paint to give the mudroom its own personality. I love banquettes in a breakfast room; they invite you to linger over your morning coffee.
—Kori Keyser, ASID, Keyser Interiors, Inc.
Melanie Whittington
Whittington Design Studio
whittingtondesignstudio.com
instagram.com/whittingtondesign
703-533-3705
Barbara Hawthorn
Barbara Hawthorn Interiors
BarbaraHawthornInteriors.com
703-241-5588
Photo: Kenneth M. Wyner Photography
Gina Fitzsimmons
Fitzsimmons Design Associates
Fitzsimmonsdesign.com
facebook.com/fitzsimmonsdesign
instagram.com/fitzsimmonsdesign
410-269-1965
WHAT FACTORS DETERMINE WHETHER A WATERFRONT SITE NEAR THE CHESAPEAKE BAY IS VIABLE FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION?
There are several key factors. One is whether the property passes the local health department perc test indicating that it will support a septic system. A second is whether the property extensively slopes to the water; if it does, a variance will be required that probably means supportability for new construction will be limited. A third factor is a location of the 100-foot critical-area buffer line on the property and how that location will impact the ability to develop the lot.
Most waterfront properties can be developed—there just might be limits to the ways in which that development can take place. The key is to match the purchaser’s desires and goals with a property that will maximize all development possibilities just like WordPress must-have plugins are used to evolve professional websites.
—Cathy Purple Cherry, AIA, LEED AP, CAS, Purple Cherry Architects, Annapolis, Maryland
Builder: Pilli Custom Homes, Millersville, Maryland. Landscape Architecture: Campion Hruby Landscape Architects, Annapolis, Maryland.
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE DESIGN ELEMENTS WHEN CREATING INTERIORS FOR A WATERFRONT HOME?
The view, of course! Choosing colors that complement the water view is my first thought when designing a waterfront home. This can mean working in shades of blue and green and in soft neutrals, or choosing gray tones with pops of coral. The soft neutrals and subtle grays of these palettes, punctuated by bold accents, are sure to create a pleasing contrast while also allowing the eye to be drawn to the beauty of the water.
When designing a waterfront home, I also consider my fabric choices carefully. I tend to look for textiles that have a natural, textural quality such as linen and grass cloth, and I always keep in mind durability and sun-fastness, both of which are important in a waterfront setting where sunlight can fade fabrics.
— Stephanie Simmons, Allied ASID, Karen Renée Interior Design, Severna Park, Maryland
Renovation Architecture: Purple Cherry Architects, Annapolis, Maryland. Builder: Pilli Custom Homes, Millersville, Maryland.
WHAT SHOULD HOMEOWNERS KNOW ABOUT DESIGNING A PROJECT IN THE CHESAPEAKE BAY CRITICAL AREA?
Building responsibly in the critical area can be a challenging but rewarding process for homeowners willing to hire a professional, exercise patience and work with their permitting office.
There is often confusion about the critical area and the buffer. In Maryland, a 1,000-foot-wide swath of land must border all tidal waters; this is the critical area. The first 100 feet of it is called the buffer. In certain zoning districts (not all), it is prohibited to build anything in the buffer.
One important regulation is the limit on lot coverage, which includes buildings, paving (even pervious), swimming pools and gravel driveways, to list a few. A wooden deck is not considered lot coverage. Limits to lot coverage can be as low as 15 percent of your property area and as high as 50 percent. Consult your local planning or permitting office to find out the specifics of your property.
—D. Miles Bernard, ASLA, RLA, South Fork Studio Landscape Architecture, Inc., Chestertown, Maryland
Landscape Contracting: Anthony’s Flowers and Landscaping, Chestertown, Maryland. Pool Installation: Coastal Pool Builders, Queenstown, Maryland.
WHAT COMMON MISTAKES DO HOMEOWNERS MAKE WHEN BUILDING ON THE BAY?
A common error when building at the water’s edge is under-investing in a quality building envelope, which is the barrier between the home’s interior, conditioned space and the outside environment. Waterfront locations have more exposure to wind-driven rain and are subject to large temperature and humidity variations, so it is critical to choose products and construction techniques that can handle these extremes.
A quality builder who understands what it takes to build for the long term should mitigate the risk of penetrating moisture by utilizing rot-resistant or composite siding, with some type of rain screen or drainage gap behind. That, combined with high-quality house wrap and proper door and window flashing, offers the most effective way to prevent water intrusion. When confidently executing a homeowner’s and architect’s vision, this combination of materials and methods is one of the most important factors in ensuring a home’s longevity and comfort.
—David Carlisle, Bayview Builders, Annapolis, Maryland
Architecture: Purple Cherry Architects, Annapolis, Maryland.
Gina Fitzsimmons
Fitzsimmons Design Associates
Fitzsimmonsdesign.com
facebook.com/fitzsimmonsdesign
instagram.com/fitzsimmonsdesign
410-269-1965
I love the recycled rug trend! Rugs made with patches of old Orientals have so much history, interest and funkiness. It is an instant way to introduce patina and warmth to a space. Every patch has a story!
—Gina Fitzsimmons, ASID, Fitzsimmons Design Associates, Inc.
Bountiful Interiors
bountifuldecor.com
facebook.com/bountifuldecor
410-763-8500
Function is first and foremost. Fortunately, modern innovations in flooring provide incredible flexibility regardless of how a space will be used. We love designing one-of-a-kind flooring patterns to add drama, especially in large spaces.
—Jamie Merida, Bountiful Interiors
Melanie Whittington
Whittington Design Studio
whittingtondesignstudio.com
instagram.com/whittingtondesign
703-533-3705
Consider the style and feel of a product versus its durability. We steer clients away from viscose rugs if they have kids or pets—they look gorgeous but can’t take stains. And for hardwood floors, use commercial finishes in high-traffic areas.
—Melanie Whittington, Whittington Design Studio
Laura Fox
Laura Fox Interior Design, LLC
laurafoxinteriordesign.com
@laurafoxinteriordesign
My designs often start with a rug. A fabulous rug or floor covering will set the tone for an entire space. I have a couple of clients who collect antique rugs. They’re like art and should be the centerpiece of the room. I also love a good painted floor—solid or patterned, it adds so much character, especially as it ages over time.
—Laura Fox, Laura Fox Interior Design, LLC
Laura Hildebrandt
Interiors by LH, LLC
interiorsbylh.com
@interiorsbylh
571-334-6476
Photo: Jenn Verrier
Several factors determine the type of flooring you should choose. First, what is the purpose of the space and how will it be used? Second, what are its limits? Is it on a lower level? Is the base cement? Is sound an issue? Flooring is the home’s backdrop and has to flow with the overall design.
—Laura Hildebrandt, IFDA, NKBA, Interiors by LH
Kori Keyser
Keyser Interiors Inc.
keyserinteriors.com
240-651-5656
Ba
rbara Hawthorn
Barbara Hawthorn Interiors
BarbaraHawthornInteriors.com
703-241-5588
Photo: Kenneth M. Wyner Photography
Purple Cherry Architects
purplecherry.com
instagram
@purplecherryarchitects
410-990-1700
A look at some of the faces and firms whose engaging work has graced Home & Design covers over the years.
Over the years, Home & Design has spotlighted hundreds of design professionals; some of these icons share their work.
Barbara Hawthorn
Barbara Hawthorn Interiors
BarbaraHawthornInteriors.com
703-241-5588
An entry should be welcoming and reflect your personal taste. The wall color, flooring, lighting, art and furnishings should be selected based on what puts a smile on your face when you enter your home. Make it personal and it will be welcoming.
—Barbara Hawthorn, Barbara Hawthorn Interiors
Laura Fox
Laura Fox Interior Design, LLC
laurafoxinteriordesign.com
@laurafoxinteriordesign
This is the first thing people will see coming in and the last thing they will see going out. Make it memorable yet functional. Similar to a powder room, I believe this is a space you can really have a bit of fun with.
—Laura Fox, Laura Fox Interior Design, LLC
Purple Cherry Architects
purplecherry.com
instagram: @purplecherryarchitects
410-990-1700
A large-scale, soft yet subtle botanical wallpaper from Schumacher can set the tone for an entry space. Next, a classic Hinkley chandelier and sconces refract light against the walls. A Belgian blue-limestone floor exudes history. And the finishing touch: a David Iatesta console—French-style or contemporary, your choice!
—Cathy Purple Cherry, AIA, LEED AP, CAS, Purple Cherry Architects
Laura Hildebrandt
Interiors by LH, LLC
interiorsbylh.com
@interiorsbylh
571-334-6476
The foyer needs to offer insight into what to expect in the rest of the home. If the home is grand, I like to echo that sentiment in the foyer with a beautiful chandelier. I like to include beloved objects that tell the family’s story, to remind them of their experience in the home.
—Laura Hildebrandt, IFDA, NKBA, Interiors by LH, LLC
I think the foyer really sets the tone for a home. It should flow with the architecture and style of the house, but I like it to have one statement piece—whether it be art, lighting, a beautiful piece of furniture or an area rug—that lets the space stand out.
—Kori Keyser, ASID, Keyser Interiors, Inc.
Melanie Whittington
Whittington Design Studio
whittingtondesignstudio.com
instagram.com/whittingtondesign
703-533-3705
Bountiful Interiors
bountifuldecor.com
facebook.com/bountifuldecor
410-763-8500
Gina Fitzsimmons
Fitzsimmons Design Associates
Fitzsimmonsdesign.com
facebook.com/fitzsimmonsdesign
instagram.com/fitzsimmonsdesign
410-269-1965
WHAT FACTORS DETERMINE WHETHER A WATERFRONT SITE NEAR THE CHESAPEAKE BAY IS VIABLE FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION?
There are several key factors. One is whether the property passes the local health department perc test indicating that it will support a septic system. A second is whether the property extensively slopes to the water; if it does, a variance will be required that probably means supportability for new construction will be limited. A third factor is the location of the 100-foot critical-area buffer line on the property and how that location will impact the ability to develop the lot.
Most waterfront properties can be developed—there just might be limits to the ways in which that development can take place. The key is to match the purchaser’s desires and goals with a property that will maximize all development possibilities. —Cathy Purple Cherry, AIA, LEED AP, CAS, Purple Cherry Architects, Annapolis, Maryland
Builder: Pilli Custom Homes, Millersville, Maryland. Landscape Architecture: Campion Hruby Landscape Architects, Annapolis, Maryland.
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE DESIGN ELEMENTS WHEN CREATING INTERIORS FOR A WATERFRONT HOME?
The view, of course! Choosing colors that complement the water view is my first thought when designing a waterfront home. This can mean working in shades of blue and green and in soft neutrals, or choosing gray tones with pops of coral. The soft neutrals and subtle grays of these palettes, punctuated by bold accents, are sure to create a pleasing contrast while also allowing the eye to be drawn to the beauty of the water.
When designing a waterfront home, I also consider my fabric choices carefully. I tend to look for textiles that have a natural, textural quality such as linen and grass cloth, and I always keep in mind durability and sun-fastness, both of which are important in a waterfront setting where sunlight can fade fabrics. — Stephanie Simmons, Allied ASID, Karen Renée Interior Design, Severna Park, Maryland
Renovation Architecture: Purple Cherry Architects, Annapolis, Maryland. Builder: Pilli Custom Homes, Millersville, Maryland.
WHAT SHOULD HOMEOWNERS KNOW ABOUT DESIGNING A PROJECT IN THE CHESAPEAKE BAY CRITICAL AREA?
Building responsibly in the critical area can be a challenging but rewarding process for homeowners willing to hire a professional, exercise patience and work with their permitting office.
There is often confusion about the critical area and the buffer. In Maryland, a 1,000-foot-wide swath of land must border all tidal waters; this is the critical area. The first 100 feet of it is called the buffer. In certain zoning districts (not all), it is prohibited to build anything in the buffer.
One important regulation is the limit on lot coverage, which includes buildings, paving (even pervious), swimming pools and gravel driveways, to list a few. A wooden deck is not considered lot coverage. Limits to lot coverage can be as low as 15 percent of your property area and as high as 50 percent. Consult your local planning or permitting office to find out the specifics of your property. —D. Miles Bernard, ASLA, RLA, South Fork Studio Landscape Architecture, Inc., Chestertown, Maryland
Landscape Contracting: Anthony’s Flowers and Landscaping, Chestertown, Maryland. Pool Installation: Coastal Pool Builders, Queenstown, Maryland.
WHAT COMMON MISTAKES DO HOMEOWNERS MAKE WHEN BUILDING ON THE BAY?
A common error when building at the water’s edge is under-investing in a quality building envelope, which is the barrier between the home’s interior, conditioned space and the outside environment. Waterfront locations have more exposure to wind-driven rain and are subject to large temperature and humidity variations, so it is critical to choose products and construction techniques that can handle these extremes.
A quality builder who understands what it takes to build for the long term should mitigate the risk of penetrating moisture by utilizing rot-resistant or composite siding, with some type of rain screen or drainage gap behind. That, combined with high-quality house wrap and proper door and window flashing, offers the most effective way to prevent water intrusion. When confidently executing a homeowner’s and architect’s vision, this combination of materials and methods is one of the most important factors in ensuring a home’s longevity and comfort. —David Carlisle, Bayview Builders, Annapolis, Maryland
Architecture: Purple Cherry Architects, Annapolis, Maryland.
