Designed by Robert M. Gurney Architect, this gorgeous residence has been organized into two volumes that are connected by glass bridges, situated in Glen Echo, Maryland, just outside of Washington, DC. This newly developed property is nestled on a sloping, wooded lot offering views of the Potomac River in the distance. The home was designed on the lot so that the architects could preserve most of the existing mature trees, while at the same time orienting the home so that it will have views of the river.

Secondary volumes intersect and overlap the two larger structures rendering the composition more dynamic. Material changes in the various elements intensify the relationships. Expanses of glass open to a terrace organized around a swimming pool with two “infinity” edges reinforcing the connectivity to the wooded landscape.

Organized into two volumes that are joined via glass bridges, a reflecting pool can be seen between the two structures.

The interiors are painted with light. Walls constructed with slender, steel window frames composed in “Mondrian” inspired patterns combine with translucent panels, wenge and white oak millwork and Pompeii Scarpaletto stone to define interior spaces. White terrazzo flooring juxtaposes the black window frames and unifies the volumes on the main floor.

This house is designed to provide spaces which are organized to integrate its inherently picturesque site in a way that the architecture becomes subservient to the landscape that surrounds it.

Photographs: Maxwell MacKenzie Architectural Photographer