Life on the Potomac

This is a project for friends. They have an interesting property on the Potomac they refer to as “the cottage”. Actually, a little block bungalow adjacent to a large barn they had constructed years ago. They are currently linked by a canopy/breezeway that can act as a carport. The 1st intention is to retire there. Their 2nd intention is to turn the property into a proper bed-and-breakfast as they love people and entertaining. We want to use the foundation system of the existing block house because it’s solid and has value. Basically, the barn remains much as it is with the expansive loft becoming the guest bedrooms with private baths and laundry. The rest of the house is going to be essentially new and built around the concrete foundation in place. There is also Hilda; a most wonderful mother and center of the family at 96. So, we start with a private suite for Hilda and work outward with communal spaces for family and guests. These would include a spacious eat-in kitchen, billiards room and open Living room overlooking the garden and the river. Up stairs we have their private Master Suite, Home Office and exercise area segregated from the upper level guests by an open atrium bridge. All exists onto a spacious 2nd floor deck for entertaining and enjoying Virginia evenings.