PROJECT Addition / Alteration Chevy Chase, Maryland
ARCHITECT Balodemas Architects, Chtd.
LOCATION  Chevy Chase, Maryland US

PROJECT COMPLETION DATE  7/11/2020
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN TEAM  Louis Balodemas, AIA and Veena Shahsavarian, AIA
OWNER/CLIENT
CONTRACTOR/CONSTRUCTION MANAGER  Heb-N-Co Construction
PHOTOGRAPHER  Anice Hoachlander
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT
CIVIL ENGINEER
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER GPI - Holbert Apple Associates
MECHANICAL ENGINEER
ELECTRICAL ENGINEER
CONSULTANT
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SUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT
A fire in 2019 destroyed the interior of this 1950s split level that sits on a wooded lot in Chevy Chase. It is the last of six houses on the block that all had a similar footprint and uncommon front-to-back split.

The project involved rebuilding the destroyed house, making two small additions to the rear and right side, as well as reconsidering the overall layout. We focused on making more efficient use of the space, rather than gaining space unnecessarily. The goal was to achieve a subtle modernization that integrated into the wooded setting while maintaining a compatible scale with neighboring houses.

Thoughtful, small changes allowed us to create a colorful, inviting new design largely on the footprint of the original structure. We changed the gabled roof to a butterfly shape that extends upward toward the front and rear. Carrying the upper roof forward across the lower level gave the living room more generous height and allowed a more distinctive window pattern on the front of the house.

Previously, all the living spaces were on the main floor and had no good connection to the yards. The design intersperses living spaces throughout all three levels and improves the connection between them with a large stair hall. We also relocated the kitchen and dining room to the lower level to take advantage of the walk-out patio and open the house to the back yard.

New skylights and a wood screen in the foyer achieve significant daylighting of the interior, which was minimal prior to the renovation. The design fills the house with light and bold material choices. The interior palette eschews any one style or trend, mixing jewel tones, earthy finishes, and whimsical wallpapers. The contrast between the highly personal interior and the modern exterior exemplifies one of our favorite things about renovations: bringing a sense of surprise to what was once generic.

JURY COMMENTS (If applicable)

The jury was charmed by this project due to the subtle changes in plan that create significant spatial upgrades in this fire damaged mid century home. In addition the interiors are awash in color and minimal well executed details that create inviting and warm spaces.

MEDIA FOR DOWNLOAD
Project PDF

IMAGES (Captions and Photographer Credit)
1. Foyer ©2022, Studio HDP Photography
2. Front View ©2022, Studio HDP Photography
3. Living ©2022, Studio HDP Photography
4. Bedroom ©2022, Studio HDP Photography
5. Dining Room ©2022, Studio HDP Photography
6. Exterior at Dusk ©2022, Studio HDP Photography
7. Bedroom Fireplace ©2022, Studio HDP Photography
8. Stair Detail ©2022, Studio HDP Photography