Overlook Road House | Robert M. Gurney Architect

This project began with a typical post-WWII developer spec house in an established northwest Washington, DC neighborhood. Having undergone a series of renovations and additions over time that incorporated varying styles, details and finishes, the existing house was ultimately composed of disjointed interior spaces. Although the existing spatial arrangement was largely kept intact, the new design integrated expanses of glass, opened up the spaces and organized them more efficiently.  Larger extensions, including a new entry space, a screened porch pavilion, and a second story office, provided spaces that were requested by the owner, and afforded further opportunities to allow natural light to penetrate the previously dark interiors.

In the redesign, all openings, millwork and the majority of windows and doors extend from floor to ceiling in order to minimize the impact of the existing 8’ high ceilings.  New interior finishes include beech, FSC Rosewood, aluminum, glass and limestone.

Changes to typical developer houses in desirable neighborhoods are inevitable. While this comprehensive renovation project incorporated significant additional space, the goal was to add a new layer to the existing fabric that respects both the scale and material palette found in the neighborhood.