Moore Architects has designed this stunning Italianate bungalow for a pair of empty-nesters who are recently retired, located in Alexandria, Virginia. The goal of this project was to create an age-in-place home for this retired couple. The program for the house places all of the primary functions for daily living on the main level, with additional entertaining, bedroom, and support spaces on the upper and lower levels.

The architecture of the exterior creates a visual connection to the southern bungalow style with an Italianate influence found in 19th-century New Orleans houses. The white clapboard, standing seam metal roof, and black sashed windows create a crisp, modern interpretation of the American traditional house.

DESIGN DETAILS: ARCHITECT Moore Architects INTERIOR DESIGN Madigan Schuler Interior Design CUSTOM CABINETRY Lobkovich

Across the rear grass yard-court, the Italianate style continues with a small white clapboard barn structure to hold the owners’ classic red Ford pickup truck. The barn transitions to the rear with a more agrarian structure paying tribute to the mid-western farm buildings of the owners’ youth.

This structure connected to the rear of the barn contains a collection of two forms, the first holding a workshop and the second a home-concert music hall. The half-acre property gently slopes downhill to wooded rear parkland allowing the barn structure to recede from the more formal main house site.

The final massing of the house creates a less imposing 1½ story structure that fits perfectly into the established neighborhood. The siting and architecture of the house and outbuilding are meant to convey a sense of history and permanence. 

What We Love: This Italianate bungalow has gorgeous curb appeal with its white facade and pop of green from the front doors. The porch is warm and inviting with a cozy swing for lounging. The interiors are equally beautiful with the exposed wooden beams, white paneling and exquisite attention to detail at every turn. We especially love the screened porch, perfect for entertaining and spending the seasons sheltered from the elements while enjoying an indoor-outdoor living experience.

Tell Us: What details in the design of this home do you find most inspiring? Please share your thoughts in the Comments below!

Note: Have a look at a couple of other amazing home tours that we have showcased here on One Kindesign in the state of Virginia: A mountain modern inspired house set in woodsy Northern Virginia and A Virginia Beach cottage showcases a fresh, coastal-chic vibe.

PHOTOGRAPHER Anice Hoachlander