Located atop a 140-foot cliff on 23 picturesque acres overlooking Maryland’s Severn River, this estate was originally built in 1922 as a single family residence and became a friary for Capuchin monks 30 years later. Sold again in 1983, it passed through a series of commercial and single-family owners prior to its current renovation.
Project Type:
renovation
Distinguishing Fact:
new 12-car garage built underneath the pool
Materials:
limestone, sandstone, granite, stone tiles, exposed brick
Respectful but not bound by the home's past, the new homeowners wanted a functional and comfortable home. Under the guidance of architect Charles Anthony, ILEX dramatically transformed this house, which is composed of a central core and two wings—one of which was a chapel—angled off the rear of the house. The central main house was restored to its Georgian Revival style and now connects to a conservatory, great hall, pavilion, pool and garage. The property also includes a gate house, swing house, mechanical shed and tennis courts. A pier on the river incorporates a lift from house level to the beach below.
All of the original millwork in the home as well as the heart pine floors were painstakingly restored. Paint layers dating back over 80 years were removed to reveal intricately carved mantels, while hearths newly crafted in India completed the home's 11 fireplaces. Two 180 degree self-supporting staircases dramatically connect the main floors. The billiard room features 45 18-inch hand carved teak square ceiling tiles commissioned in South Asia. In all, sixteen ocean freight containers of limestone, sandstone, granite and stone tiles were imported from Southeast Asia, a reflection of the homeowners' love for the materials and craftsmanship of the region.
Extensive concrete work was also required. The home's crawl space was converted into a full basement, and a room was excavated in order to create a wine cellar that features exposed original brick walls and cabinets crafted from the original structure. An indoor resistance pool was also added and a 12-car garage was placed underneath the outdoor pool.
