This 1980s contemporary home had a unique design in a great neighborhood but it hadn’t aged well and it needed to be completely re-imagined.  The layout was disjointed, the round stair tower dominated the façade, and the spaces lacked natural light and connection. The design envisioned a modern, energy-efficient home that felt brighter, more open, and more in tune with the clients vision.

The design called for a complete transformation—inside and out—while respecting the home’s modern architectural character. A new one-story rear addition replaced the existing deck, expanding the kitchen and opening it to the family room. The addition also introduced a new dining area and auxiliary kitchen, creating a more natural flow for daily living and entertaining.

Inside, the main level was completely rebuilt. The kitchen was relocated to the new addition and paired with a custom butler’s pantry. Walls were reconfigured to improve sight-lines and movement throughout the space, while new finishes, flooring, and trim brought a refined and cohesive look to every room. The dated round stair tower was removed, replaced by a striking new two-story staircase and entry that anchor the home with a modern, architectural statement.

Behind the scenes, energy performance was a top priority. High-performance wall assemblies, improved air sealing, and upgraded insulation bring lasting comfort and efficiency. New hydronic radiant heating and multiple HVAC high efficiency systems provide balanced climate control across the home.

The end result is a home that’s brighter, smarter, and beautifully reimagined for modern living.

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​Architectural drawings by Michael Merschat of Open Corner, LLC

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Project Year: 2025

McLean VA 22101