Puzzle Solved
Contemporary stainless cable railings keep the natural scenery visible from inside while providing a durable, safe solution for the deck and stairs.
With their children grown and out of the house, this couple was ready to re-imagine their 1960s ranch-style home in suburban DC as a place to enjoy their golden years. The original layout was choppy, with lots of small rooms and a staircase that monopolized the entry. The clients wanted more open space for entertaining, with a sightline straight to the backyard. Extending the living room and adjacent bedroom over the existing patio helped do just that.
To avoid modifying the entire floor plan, the addition was carefully designed, almost fitting the existing house like a missing puzzle piece. The adjoined exterior creates an interesting architectural detail with large-panel, fiber cement siding that echoes the original siding but with a more modern look.
Sliding doors from the living area to the deck make inside-out entertaining a breeze.
Expanding the living room above created an outdoor alcove on the ground level. A simple, sculptural ceiling fan and slatted wood screen keeps the space cool and uncluttered.
The new deck provides the perfect place for the couple to enjoy a morning coffee or host a backyard barbecue under the property’s natural green canopy.