View from water

The Martingham residential community is contiguous to St. Michaels but it is located in Talbot County. The community is of a mix of single-family homes and condominium associations and the planned community enjoys underground utilities and a street layout that is conducive to walking or biking.  Meandering through the community is the Pete Dye designed 18-hole Links of Perry Cabin. The waterside community park’s views of the Miles River creates a tranquil space for time alone to unwind in one of the waterside chairs or to relax with family or neighbors around a picnic table or in the gazebo. 

Today’s feature enjoys privacy from being one of only three properties in a short cul-de-sac, surrounded by mature trees. The steep shoreline is riprapped and the house’s rectangular footprint has both bay-shaped and square projections that reach out to the water. On the day I visited, I was enchanted by the beautiful landscape that I learned was the vision of one of the Owners, who is an artist. 

Welcoming side view of home from the parking area and curved driveway

After driving along a curved driveway that gives the house privacy from the road, I admired the massing of the house’s center two-story wing with two-story and a-half gable wings articulated by shed dormers and bay-shaped projections and how the Owner’s beautiful landscape design enhanced the architecture. The backdrop of mature trees and the house’s neutral exterior color were a blank canvas for his additions of small flowering plants, flowers and shrubbery that were carefully placed for scale, color and texture. The landscape has been meticulously maintained, with nary a weed in sight-even the garden shed area was perfect! 

The beautiful garden can be enjoyed through the many windows along the home’s back wall or enjoy a close-up while walking through the back yard. 

The rear elevation’s gable wing, bay-shaped wing and the center wing’s wall that is infilled with long windows and doors offer panoramic views of the water and sky from both floors. The elevated main floor decks off the living room, primary suite and the second floor deck are delightful outdoor rooms.   

First- and second-floor decks provide breathtaking panoramic Miles and Wye Rivers views.

From both the property’s shoreline and the decks at both the main floor and the second floor, there are breathtaking panoramic views of the Miles and Wye Rivers that empty into the Eastern Bay, the Wye River lighthouse at the tip of Kent Island, Porter’s Creek and Claiborne Point. On the day of my tour, the sky was as blue with white clouds as this photographs shows and I was mesmerized by the expanse of water meeting the sky. The main floor deck leads to a large pool and the waterside screened gazebo is the perfect spot to relax after a swim or a day on the water.

Owners get a “front pier” seat to salty sunrises and sumptuous sunsets.

Standing at the end of the pier, you can enjoy not only tranquil sunsets but also sunrises to begin your day.  During the July 4th celebrations next week, I imagine the Owners will enjoy their front-row seats for the fireworks that will light up the sky from St. Kent Narrows and St. Michaels!

Two-story foyer invites guests into the bright, well-lit home.

The front door opens into a two-story foyer whose one edge is defined by the focal point of the elegant curved and angled staircase. At the second floor, the stair ends in a hall that is a bridge overlooking the foyer and the adjacent living room. The beautiful wood floors flow throughout the house and the white walls that reflect the light also highlight the artist Owner’s work.  

Upper and lower windows provide a kaleidoscope of ever-changing artwork in the living room.

The living room’s furnishings are arranged around both the fireplace and the rear wall infilled with windows and sliding doors to the deck. The lower part of the window wall has views of the water while the upper windows that are visible from the second floor hall bridge highlight the sky. The room’s side walls are articulated by the painted wood wainscot flanking the fireplace opposite the mirrored wainscot with ornate wood trim. 

Off-foyer dining room has lovely trim work and elegant curved glass built-ins.

The dining room next to the foyer also has a wood wainscot pattern of rectangular trim “frames” between moldings at the base and cap of the wainscot. Built into the front corners of the wainscot are cabinets with glass upper doors infilled with arched glass panels for display. I especially liked how the mirror over the sideboard reflects the front window and the landscape beyond. The patterned rug over the wood floors anchors the table and the mix of wood and upholstered chairs.  The arched door at the corner of the dining room leads to a short hall with a powder room and then to the kitchen area.

Wet bar/butler’s pantry combo is great for hosting

Behind the powder room is a bar/butler’s pantry with all one needs to host a party. The cased opening leads to the living room and on the opposite side of the bar is the kitchen. I admired the neutral colored cabinets and the granite countertop, stainless steel appliances and the backsplash’s design of square and diamond shaped tile with an accent band of smaller tile. The double unit window opposite the cabinets gives the bartender views of the water.

The “L” shaped kitchen and island layout create a relaxed flow complimented by the dark/light contrast of cabinetry. Much like the rest of the home, views abound. 

The spacious kitchen is also connected to both the waterside family room and the breakfast room. A wide wall opening might have once been an exterior window but it now maintains the cook’s view of the water through the adjacent family room. I especially liked the fish sculpture floating in the wall opening. The kitchen’s “L” shape and island layout works very well and the wood detailing of the island’s cabinets is a pleasant contrast to the creamy white of the other cabinets. Next to the cooktop is a window for views of the landscape and water. Behind the kitchen is another stair to the second floor, stairs to the basement, pantry, mud room and the three-car garage.  

Breakfast room shaped by the wrap-around bay windows

My fave room is the bay-shaped breakfast room with wrap-around windows for views to the landscape and water. The round table and chairs are the perfect scale for this cozy room and the Frank Lloyd Wright style pendant fixture with its octagonal shape is the perfect touch of color. I would be tempted to open up the ceiling to the underside of the roof rafters for added spatial geometry.

Cozy family room with pitched, stained-wood ceilings is a blank canvas ready for personal touches

Since the family room is a one-story space, a pitched ceiling finished in stained wood opens up the space to the water with wide windows on two sides, transoms and sliding doors to the deck off the living room. I especially liked the addition of the sailboat motif in the transoms above the sliding doors. 

Crossing back through the foyer and a pair of french doors, the study offers a quiet oasis for all of your WFH needs.

To continue my tour, I circled back to the foyer where a pair of French doors leads from the foyer hall to the study at the front of the house. I admired the color of the walls, the built-in millwork and the pitched white ceiling that reflects the light. The work table between two long windows and the wide upholstered chair and ottoman next to a round table with a good reading light complete all the basics one needs in a study.

A fireplace, built-in millwork, and a sitting area make the primary bedroom a lux retreat. 

Next to the study is the sumptuous primary bedroom that extends beyond the rear wall of the house with a bay-shaped sitting area with wrap-around windows and a pair of sliding doors to the deck. The fireplace, built-in millwork, wall space for the Owner’s art and the neutral color scheme create a restful retreat.  Completing the suite is a large bath four-piece bath with a wainscot of bright blue and white tile, dual white pedestal lavatories, white porcelain soaking tub, large shower and a huge walk-in closet.

All three guest bedrooms reside on the home’s second floor. The main guest room has its own bath walk-in closet and private balcony

The second floor contains three guest bedrooms, an office/homework area and a bonus room over the three-car garage. This was my fave guest room for its light aqua walls, plush carpet, sleigh bed and colorful bedding. The French door to the private balcony is a bonus. Since this bedroom has its own bath and walk-in closet, it could be a primary ensuite for a couple until their young children were older. 

This house also contains a basement with two family rooms, bedroom, bath, sauna and utility rooms.

Great location in the highly desirable Martingham community, one of only three houses on a quiet and private cul-de-sac, traditional architecture, mature trees, beautiful gardens that have been meticulously maintained, floor plan for family living with easy flow among rooms and a sumptuous primary suite. Only a mile from St. Michaels’ shops and restaurants with the bonus of breathtaking, endless vistas of Porters Creek, Miles River, Wye River and the Eastern Bay by day and the  sparkling lights of Kent Island Bridge at night! 

For more information about this property, contact Cornelia C. Heckenbach, Associate Broker at Long and Foster Real Estate, 410-310-1229 (c) or [email protected] .  For more photographs and pricing visit www.stmichaelsmdwaterfront.com,  “Equal Housing Opportunity.”

Photography by HomeVisit, www.homevisit.com ,703-953-3866

Welcoming brick walkway invites you inside from main street in Easton’s Historic District.

Ironically, this is the third property I have featured on a corner lot where the same two major streets intersect in Easton’s Historic District. This house is set back from the corner so it has a deep side yard with a brick sidewalk that leads to the Town sidewalk. I have long admired the house’s massing from the three-story tower that telescopes down to the steep intersecting gable wings that project from the front, side and rear elevations with offsets for architectural interest. The eclectic architectural style includes the Gallic flair of the tower’s Second Empire mansard roof; the Victorian 2/2 windows and lap siding; and the Craftsman porch columns with their subtle tapered sides, railing and the deep eaves of the roof. I especially liked the detail of the decorative wooden trim that floats below the gables’ ridges with pinnacles and how their darker cobalt blue color stands out against the lighter blue siding. 

Rear elevation features covered porch with simple triangular fretwork and beautiful landscaping around terrace. 

When I walked around the property, I discovered the charming rear elevation with a covered porch at the second floor of the house. Along with the Craftsman style railing, the simple triangular fretwork is just the right decorative touch. Mature trees surround this verdant urban oasis and meandering slate and brick paths converge to create the terrace between the house and the garage facing the alley. 

Front-side elevation shows charming eclectic architecture with bonus outdoor rooms of the fabulous wrap-around porch

This house’s bonus is the spectacular porch that wraps around three sides with pediments in its low sloped roof; with the offsets of the floor plan, the porch roofs seems to undulate! Brackets extend underneath the house’s wide eaves with carved barge boards that cover the trim at the end of the gables. The simple exterior color palette of light blue lap siding and white trim stands out against its background of trees. I especially admired the tower’s detailing of the lancet shaped dormers with their narrow width and high arched headers that add a touch of Gothic, especially with the pinnacles at the top of the roof. 

Corner sitting area perfect for enjoying warm afternoons

The wrap-around porch is simply irresistible and I wanted to linger in this corner’s sitting area to escape from the heat of midday. I always carry a tape measure with me on house tours and I was amazed at the depth of the porch – at this corner area and other points, the depth is almost fifteen feet wide!  Since the porch’s footprint is so large, one could also screen this portion of the porch that leads to the dining room and kitchen.

Elevation from other side of corner lot

Both entrances at the side elevation and here at the main entry elevation are detailed with extensions from the main porch footprint with pairs of columns and a low pitched pediment marking each entrance. Since the front door is on this  side of the house, the brick sidewalk widens to the edges of the two double pairs of columns that support the pediment with its eave and bracket extensions.

Foyer and cantilevered staircase

The front door opens into the foyer and the beautiful cantilevered staircase that reminded me of the historic Nathaniel Russell house in Charleston, SC. The graceful angles and curves are enhanced by the wood newel post, cap rail and treads with the white risers, stringer and brackets against the sunny yellow color of the walls. The spacious foyer is ready to welcome guests and I was very pleased to see the original wood floors and the French door that has escaped being painted!

Original parlor, off foyer is currently being used as a natural light dappled bedroom

The French door in the foyer leads to a large room that was probably originally a parlor. The bay window projection at the front of the room overlooks the porch and on the opposite wall is a fireplace. With two additional windows on the side wall, sunlight floods the space and the deep trim and crown molding at the underside of the ceiling wraps around the room. Although the room is currently furnished as a bedroom, It is easy to visualize this room as an elegant living room.

Dining room with open flow to porch

Another French door leads from the foyer to the spacious dining room. The single door at the side wall leads to the porch and opposite this door is a pair of French doors that lead to the adjacent family room for great indoor-outdoor flow. Windows at the front and rear of the room also overlook the porch. The built-in corner cabinet contains all the pieces one needs to set the beautiful antique table and the table’s deep width still leaves more than enough space for circulation. The period pendant fixture is a perfect finishing touch.

Family room boasts beautiful color pallete and custom millwork

The family room has two windows on the side and rear walls for sunlight throughout the day that is absorbed by the soothing pale blue wall color. I admired how the millwork extends to the underside of the ceiling and how the backs of the millwork’s open shelves are painted to match the deep blue of the contemporary upholstered sofas grouped around the TV.

Family room flows into sunny kitchen with white cabinetry and hexagonal windows details.

A wide wall opening connects the family room with the kitchen. The white cabinetry stands out against the soft lilac wall color and the wood floor. Long windows overlooking the side yard and the porch and the double window unit over the sink on the other side wall bring sunlight throughout the day. The hexagonal shaped windows above the upper cabinets are a deft touch for additional sunlight. The island is detailed with a reclaimed wood piece, cabinetry with another sink, the cooktop and a wrap-around lower counter at a seating height for breakfast. The rear doorway of the kitchen leads to a mud room/laundry and a French door to the rear terrace and garden. 

Second floor bedroom located at home’s front corner

The graceful foyer stairs end at a landing with three more steps leading off each side to the second floor rooms. One set of steps leads to the front corner that contains a large bedroom. Two windows on both exterior walls offer abundant sunlight and the row of closets opposite the front wall have additional storage above the closet doors to the underside of the ceiling.  

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L-shaped flight of stairs lead to a spectacular tower room perfect for arists studio or private reading room

Before I explored the rest of the second floor, I could not resist another short flight of ”L” shaped stairs that beckoned me to the “Tower Room”-what a marvelous space for an artist’s studio or office with bird’s eye views of the urban landscape that offer a break from work. My only suggestion would be to deepen the floor opening over the lower run of the stairs for more headroom while climbing up the stairs. I would be tempted to remove the flat drywall ceiling and install wood slats on the underside of the roof rafters to create a cone shaped ceiling for this enchanting space.

Primary Bedroom located at rear of house opens to private porch

The second set of steps from the stair landing lead to a hall past two bedrooms and a bath then to the primary suite at the rear of the house. This quiet and peaceful haven has windows on the side walls and a French door leading to the porch. The spacious room accommodates a range of furniture befitting a primary suite. If one only needs three bedrooms on the second floor, the existing bath could open into the primary bedroom and one of the two smaller bedrooms could be renovated into a second bath.

Urban vista from primary bedroom porch

The porch spans the full depth of the primary bedroom and offers vistas of the surrounding Historic District’s rooftops and landscape. This is a great space for morning yoga and breakfast al-fresco to start the day or a nightcap while star gazing at night. 

Great location on a large corner lot in Easton’s Historic District with a detached garage accessed from the rear alley; equidistant from downtown’s shops, restaurants and Idlewild Park; charming eclectic architecture with bonus outdoor rooms of the fabulous wrap-around porch, primary bedroom porch and garden terrace; spacious sunny rooms with lofty ceilings; easy flow among rooms with minimal halls; beautiful period details including original hardwood floors, French doors and moldings that have been preserved; and the enchanting Tower Room all combine to make this property truly unique. The Horsey-Woodward House awaits the next steward of this historic property to make it their own.

For more information about this property, contact Amy Kling, Vice President & Salesperson/Realtor, 410-822-6272 (o), 301-697-5053 (c),or [email protected].

For more photographs and pricing, visit www.MeredithFineProperties.com ,“Equal Housing Opportunity.”

Photographer: Atlantic Exposure LLC, www.atlanticexposure.com, 410 973-7325.

Site aerial

Seen from the air, this house’s form could be any contemporary house; however, this is a very special house for its owners wanted “Asagao” to blend the best elements of both Japanese and  Western architecture and interiors. Their quest led the Owners and their American architect to visit Japan to immerse themselves in Japanese architecture and to discuss their vision for Asagao with Japanese architects. 

Luckily, the site’s location reflected the Japanese optimal north-south siting for abundant daily sunlight and views of water and landscaping so the main rooms of the house could enjoy views of the Miles River. I began my tour by driving  along the entry drive between lush gardens and landscaping enhanced by five ponds and water features that envelope the house. I began to relax by listening to the soothing sounds of water from many sources, including a fountain at the entry drive and a waterfall tumbling over a rocks at the side of the house. As I parked my car, I also noticed chains hanging from the eaves for another way water could add its sound to the site.

Gardens to front & side views of the house framed by landscaping

The layout of the garden reflects the Japanese custom of meandering instead of straight paths so one can look down and appreciate the design of plantings that add both color and texture. Stones whose size range from pebbles to massive boulders dot the landscape and I especially admired how one tree’s gnarled trunk contrasts with its delicate blooms.

Flagstone walk to entryway

The flagstone walkway to the house reflects the Japanese love of asymmetry with the different sizes of pavers and the irregular edge that subtly defines a slight diagonal path to the front door. A large stone tread contrasting with the pavers is used to define each step in the walkway.  I admired the treatment of the exterior walls with stained wood posts and trim framing panels of lighter lap siding that reminded me of shoji screens. I was expecting to see a traditional Japanese tile roof, but the Owners opted for an architectural shingled roof whose heavily textured surface pays homage to the tile.

Entry deck overlooking gardens

The final step of the entry sequence is the “genkan”, a transitional space between outdoors and indoors, where the Japanese exchange shoes for indoor slippers. Here the genkan is a delightful space, half sun and shade for sitting on the benches and listening to the sounds of nature while one contemplates the lush gardens. An “engawa” is a deep exterior hallway that connects spaces protected by the wide eaves; in warm months, these delightful outdoor rooms become verandahs. The Japanese revere wood and the wood inside and outside their houses are never painted, since painting would obscure the wood’s grain. Here the wood of the exterior doors and windows are stained while the underside of the eaves are left to weather naturally.  Throughout my tour, I counted four species of wood; cedar, sherry, cypress and mahogany!

Rear & side elevations to pool

The rear and side elevations show how the exterior hallways wrap around the walls and the floors appear to be floating above the ground. The house is set on a foundation of wood piers resting on stones at the water level of the ponds so the flow of water from both the water gardens and the ponds can flow beneath the exterior walkways. The pool rests in an asymmetrically shaped rock garden with plantings. Walking around the house, I appreciated how the wood posts supporting the eaves of the exterior walkways create irregular bays so the windows or doors from the house can offer unobstructed direct views of the landscape and water. 

Foyer to hall

Wide mahogany sliding doors open into a foyer with a tatami mat, whose edges are bound by the traditional black cloth. Another step up leads to the hall with vistas in both directions to the rooms on either corner of this wing. The foyer and hall’s exquisite antique pieces, ceramic vessel, and the sumi wrestler statue piqued my eagerness to discover other treasures. The wooden grid partial wall marks the stairs to the second floor which contains two bedroom ensuites and a storage room.

Zen den

Beyond the stairs is a den with a variety of windows from the wrap-around windows at the front of the house, a side window and a low window at the floor level behind the sofa. I imagine the latter’s unexpected placement would be welcome by a family’s pet. The low cabinetry along the exterior wall diagonally across from the seating defines a cozy space for watching TV. I could well imagine sinking into the caramel colored leather sofa to binge watch a fave Britbox show.

Living room connects with outdoors thanks to entire rear wall sliding panels

Opposite the stairs is a hall with a step down to the living room and to the primary suite. The wide wall opening to the living room from the side hall also  frames the triple sliding door unit in the hall exterior wall that opens onto one of the deep exterior walkways. The living room’s furnishings are Western style with the accent wall of the late 19th century screens set onto a base. I especially liked the corner built-in bar convenient to the terrace and pool area and the black accents of the rug, the bar and the base of the screens.   

Access to the outdoors is a very important tenet of Japanese design. The living room’s entire rear wall’s sliding panels glide and disappear into a recessed pocket in the wall to connect the living room’s wood floor with the deep exterior walkway for expansive vistas of water, rock hardscape, lawn and water again. 

Dining Room

Another wall opening frames the dining room from the living room. The contemporary Craftsman table, with an obi (kimono sash) that is an elegant runner, and chairs on an axis with a circular window centered in the rear wall. In its closed position, the shoji screen covers the circular window but its translucency allows soft light within. Sliding doors lead to the exterior walkway and a wide wall opening on the interior wall frames views both to and from the kitchen so the cook can enjoy the serene landscape.   

Wood elements combined with a rich gray continue the contrast of warm and cool into the Kitchen

The “L” shaped gourmet kitchen with an island on the diagonal has vistas both to the den at the end of one hall and to the laundry/mud room and garage wing. I admired the wood/gray/black color scheme and how the upper cabinets and tiled backsplash rise to the underside of the ceiling. The wrap-around windows above the kitchen sink provide serene views of the gardens. I noted the square motif in the bar chairs that matches the dining room chairs’ detail and the living room’s rug pattern.

Family room

The kitchen is open to the family room at the end of this wing and has a pitched ceiling. The eclectic mix of the contemporary upholstered pieces and Asian antiques and art give this space great character. The playful variety of windows include the low unit with stained glass and the standard unit that offer different views of the landscape. Frank Lloyd Wright’s Prairie style architecture and furnishings were influenced by his travels to Japan and the floor lamp in this room reminded me of his lamp designs. 

Family room to kitchen

The skylight is strategically placed to cast sunlight and moonlight onto the seating area tucked into the corner. The triple unit sliding doors lead to the exterior walkways and to the pool area. I especially liked the long vista through this wing that connects this room to the den at the opposite end.

Primary Bedroom with sitting area and corner views

The primary ensuite is located in its own wing off the hall to the living room. A small sitting room with sliding doors to the exterior walkways is a preamble to the primary bedroom. Sliding door units wrap around the corner of the room for panoramic views of the lawn and water. Red is a dominant color in Japanese culture with many symbolic meanings including the color of the red circle on the national flag that symbolizes the sun. Red also denotes peace, prosperity, joy and happiness. The elegant bedframe design might have been influenced by a “torii” (traditional Japanese gate). 

Primary bathroom includes a large dressing room

The primary bath has a “furo”, a tub used only for soaking; soaping and rinsing  would be done in the shower. The furo has a wide picture window over its length and operable units at the side that open onto an exterior walkway that can also be accessed from the door next to the lavatory unit. The large dressing room completes the primary suite. 

Second floor has two guest bedrooms

The second floor contains a hall overlooking the front gardens and two spacious bedrooms overlooking the lawn and water. The ceiling plane follows the underside of the roof rafters and the “clerestory” windows are located just below the roof eaves. Both ensuites have wide sliding doors to private decks for bird’s eye views of the landscape and to enjoy the sounds of the water below. 

View of the house and bridge from the water’s edge.

I first saw this house during a Broker’s Open House so I after my private tour of the house I savored walking alone through the gardens dotted with native plants and flowers and crossing the koi pond on the footbridge. Unfortunately, I missed seeing the lily pads and lotus flowers since they don’t appear until summer. 

Serene walkway over water

I also enjoyed slowly walking along the walkway that bisects two of the ponds and hearing the soothing sound of the nearby fountain. I reluctantly ended my tour and drove slowly along the drive for one last look. Realtors may sometimes be accused of “puffing” but this property is truly one of a kind!

I thoroughly enjoyed looking through my architectural library to refresh my memory of the principles of Japanese house and garden design. So many of those principles have become elements of Western design- optimal siting to maximize daylight; deep eaves that eliminate gutters and downspouts for protection from rain; indoor /outdoor living; multi-purpose rooms, natural materials, etc. It was hard to believe this house was built in 1990 as its design is timeless. Bravo to the Owners and their design team for bringing this piece of Japan to Talbot County!

For more information about this property, contact Laura Carney, Senior Vice President with TTR Sotheby’s International Realty at 410-673-3344 (o), 410-310-3307 (c) or [email protected] or [email protected]. For more photographs and pricing, visit  www.lauracarney.com ,“Equal Housing Opportunity.”

Photographer & Video: Kokkoros Professional Photos

Aerials & Video: HD Bros

Architect: Wayne Good, Good Architecture PC, www.goodarchitecture.com, 410-268-7414

1877 Atlas of the Eastern Shore

Kennedyville is one of Kent County’s quaint and small communities and is located equidistant from both Chestertown and Galena. The unincorporated and census-designated place’s main use is residential and contains single-family homes, many of which were built primarily between 1870 and 1930. Several properties are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Vistas of the large tracts of farmland surround the residential area and create a peaceful and tranquil setting. 

Front and side elevations

Today’s featured property began its life as “The Spencer House” and is a very fine example of the Queen Anne style of architecture. Two towering trees camouflage the house from the street and give the wrap-around front porch privacy. The gravel driveway continues to the detached two-car garage beyond the solid fencing. Brick pavers in a herringbone pattern add additional texture and lead to the front door. 

The house’s gable wings project from the compact footprint and I especially admired how the cornice boards project beyond the face of the eaves to end with a curved decorative profile. The gable wings above the bay wall projections below create a very pleasing massing and the gables’ pediments are accented by the half-moon windows below the roof ridges. 

Welcoming front porch and entryway

The deep front porch is covered by a low slope roof that is accented by a low gable to emphasize the entry to the house. I admired how the three-bay porch’s columns frame the vistas to the side area of the porch, the main floor bay wall projection and the front door and accent window. The height of the accent window’s sill accommodates the landing of the stairs beyond. The slender balustrade ends at two newel posts that reminded me of chess pieces. The classic color palette of light siding, white trim and the welcoming red of the front door create great curb appeal. 

Side elevation and garage showing expansion to the rear of the property

At some time the house was expanded to the rear of the property to contain a mud room, full bath and a multipurpose room at the main floor and a bedroom above.  At the end of the wrap-around porch, an accessible ramp leads to the hardscape by the driveway. The addition included a one-story screened porch with steps to the yard that is enclosed by solid wall fencing. Past the gate in the fencing, the gravel drive ends at the detached garage with a workshop above. 

Foyer to stairway! The darker colored staircase details WOW as a complement to the lighter refinished original oak floors

The front door opens into a welcoming space and I breathed a sigh of relief that the wood newel posts, balustrade, paneling and edging around the stair opening had not been painted so their darker color could complement the lighter refinished original oak floors. I admired the original five-panel door and the two accent windows; the front window with its insert of colored glass and the other window with its diamond shape for a touch of whimsy. The furnishings of the wood chest for boots and wellies and the muted earth tones of the rug were perfect finishing touches. 

The Foyer opens to the living room through a wide wall opening, bay projection provides diagonal views of the landscape

A wide wall opening trimmed with molding and rosettes at the corners opens up the vista from the foyer to the living room. The bay projection provides diagonal views of the landscape from the wide and tall windows. There is also a fireplace placed on the diagonal wall between the foyer’s wide wall opening and the pair of French doors leading from the living room to the dining area. Several pieces of free-standing wood furniture contain books and the sofa at the bay window wall with its reading lamp beckons one to relax with a good book. The soft aqua walls, muted pattern of the large rug and the neutral colors of the furnishings create a serene space. 

Open plan dining/family room- kitchen

Adjacent to the living room are the open-plan dining, family room, and kitchen area.  The dining area is centered on another bay wall projection with a wide picture window between single operable units.  The antique Hoosier cabinet is now a stylish hutch for storing table settings and serving pieces.

The wrap-around sofa and the glass-topped coffee table with its simple metal frame defines the sitting area opposite a fireplace. The wall opening next to the sofa creates a circulation space throughout the house and divides the sitting-dining area from the kitchen. 

Light and fresh kitchen

The kitchen is also accessed by a wall opening to the foyer. The kitchen’s earth tones of the light wood cabinets, wooden bar stool seats, granite countertops and the wood floor are accented by the stainless steel of the appliances. The tops of the upper cabinets become shelf space for display or decorative items.

main floor bedroom/office

Behind the kitchen-family room-dining area, the room at the rear of the house is currently furnished as an office.  With the adjacent fully accessible bath, it could become a main floor primary ensuite.  At the side of the room is another stair to the second floor. The wide double-unit window overlooks the screened porch and the landscaping beyond.

Screened in Porch

The screened porch is accessed through the mud room and its low-maintenance materials including Trex flooring. The spacious size of the porch can accommodate both seating and dining areas for warm weather relaxing, with views of the rear and side lawns’ landscaping. The dark color of the screened panels’ framing disappears into the landscape and the access door for the family pet to exercise in the large fenced yard keeps him/her fit and trim.

Vista down the stairs

From the second floor, sunlight pours into the stairwell and the exterior wall becomes a gallery space for family photographs. The ledge over the landing below becomes a shelf for pottery and plants.

Primary Bedroom

The second  floor contains three bedrooms, two baths and the laundry. Both the front bedroom and this primary bedroom are located over the two rooms on the main floor that have exterior bay-shaped walls. The primary bedroom also has a corner fireplace. This spacious room is filled with light from the wall of windows and the depth of the room can easily accommodate both sleeping and sitting areas. 

Primary Bathroom

The primary bath’s white walls and floors contrast with the darker walls above the white beadboard perimeter walls. I especially liked how the top of the bead board wainscot aligns with the middle of the window frame. The glass enclosure of the shower maintains the spatial volume of the space and the vintage claw foot tub is right at home in its original location, well positioned for one’s leaning back while soaking and enjoying the view through the trees. An antique chest of drawers now has a new life as a stylish lavatory cabinet.

The room at the rear of the second floor is a restful space for guests with deep aqua walls and quilted coverlets for the beds that complement the wall color. The double-unit window overlooks the rear yard and the garage.

Third-floor bonus room

The stairs in the foyer access the third floor that offers myriad possibilities. With a half bath and a cozy custom bed built into a dormer’s half-moon window, this large open space could become an office, game room/teen space, studio, workout room or another guest bedroom. 

This home’s remarkable renovation in 2012 was carefully planned and executed with meticulous care and craftsmanship to preserve this historic home’s charming character including refinished original oak hardwood floors, moldings, pocket doors, five-panel interior doors and bay window walls, combined with Restoration Hardware period fixtures and high-end modern amenities. The wonderful outdoor rooms of the wrap-around front porch and the screened porch at the rear of the house are bonuses, as is the third floor open space and basement for storage.  The bonus for me is that the Amtrak station at Wilmington, DE is less than an hour away so one could enjoy this peaceful haven in the country and get away for weekends in Philly or New York City!

For more information about this property, contact Joseph Ciganek with Coldwell Banker Chesapeake Real Estate, 410-778-0330 (o), 410-708-3924 (c),or [email protected].  For more photographs and pricing visit www.joeyciganekproperties.com, “Equal Housing Opportunity”.

Photography by True Place, (301) 972-3201, www.go.truplace.com.

Historical map from the Historical Society of Kent County’s website

Walkway to front door

When I drove up to this charming property in Neavitt, it reminded me of my late sister’s house in East Hampton, Long Island. The wood shake shingles that have escaped the indignity of being painted and have instead been allowed to weather to a warm gray, the white trim, double hung windows and a simple front porch is a classic Long Island look. The light green half-French door is the perfect finishing touch. 

The property is perpendicular to the street with brick hardscape creating space for parking two cars that narrows to become brick sidewalks to the front and side doors. At the corner of the side elevation facing the street, I noticed a plaque that read “Fenwick’s Folly”, circa 1890. I heard a dog barking so I followed the sound and entered by the side door where the Owner, and her dog Fenwick welcomed me to begin my tour.

front and side elevations

The one-story addition of the sunroom/kitchen has long wrap-around windows at the sunroom and higher windows at the kitchen. Stone pavers from the parking area lead to the recessed porch’s French doors that is a secondary entrance. The roof of the addition is a fabulous outdoor room and offers panoramic views of the landscape. I would be tempted to add a screened porch to the deck that would be another great warm weather area for relaxing.

rear and side elevation 

The house’s rectangular footprint and two-story massing have been enhanced by both the one-story sunroom/kitchen addition and a small shed-roofed side entry. Sliding doors at the kitchen side of the addition lead to a step down to the brick hardscape that expands to create a terrace. This spot overlooking the landscaping surrounding the rear lawn is perfect for al-fresco dining with an umbrella for shade. The shed roofed room’s full French door at the other side of the house is on axis to the meandering path through to the beautifully landscaped rear yard to a cozy renovated shed.

Side/rear yard with lush lawn and finished shed.

The shed’s low sloped roof, weathered siding and tall shrubbery camouflages this diminutive space and invites discovery. The shed is currently furnished as a guest bedroom but its other uses could include an office, studio, or teen gathering spot.

Backyard Landscaping

The broad expanse of lawn is Fenwick’s exercise area but it could also be a great spot for croquet, my fave lawn sport.  As I walked around this verdant oasis encircled by mature trees I marveled at the beauty of the planting areas. The Owner told me she had planned the landscaping herself and I responded that she had missed her calling for she has great innate talent for landscape design. It would have been easy to linger in her creation but the house’s interiors awaited me.

Living Room

This time I went around to the front door which opens opposite the stairs between the living room and the den. Direct sunlight pours into the space from three windows, one of which is the front window. I noted how the window stretches to the underside of the ceiling to maximize the light that is reflected by the glossy white shiplap ceiling and the white walls.  The plantation shutters are the most stylish choice for controlling sunlight and privacy as needed. The beautiful rug in subtle shades of blue and cream anchors the white upholstered furniture with accents of wood in the chest and the tall cupboard. The placement of the mirrors against the chimney and above the sofa are additional “windows” that add to the transparency of the room.

Living room to sunroom

The white colors of the ceiling, walls, and furnishings make the living room seem larger than it is with the texture of the white ceiling floating above the beautiful wood floors.  The wide wall opening with pocket French doors leads to the sunroom.

Elegant sunroom features white shiplap both the ceiling and interior brightened by tall windows

Sunrooms and screened porches are usually my fave rooms in the homes I feature and this elegant sunroom is a delightful space. The white shiplap of both the ceiling and interior wall reflect the light from the tall windows that bring the outdoors inside. The soft colors of the fabrics and the blue and white accent pieces create a serene space for relaxation. Since the room is long, it could be divided into sitting and dining areas.

Sunroom toward kitchen

From the corner writing desk and chair, one can enjoy diagonal views of the landscape through the wrap-around windows. The thin metal etagere with glass shelves continues the transparency and the blue and white ceramic pots of plants adds color. Another pair of pocket French doors leads to the adjacent kitchen.

View of kitchen from living room

From the sunroom, the kitchen unfolds into a galley and island arrangement between the sliding doors to the terrace. The high windows over the sink area provide sunlight and privacy from the neighbor’s driveway close to the side yard. The shiplap wainscot, large farmer’s sink, white cabinetry, and the island with additional work space appealed to this cook. I especially liked the stylish breakfast area of the tray table and stools below the mirror that reflects the view from the high windows and how the beautiful wood flooring stands out against the room’s white color scheme.

Kitchen from sunroom

Looking toward the sunroom from the kitchen, another wooden tray table is a mini-bar below the artwork that adorns the wall space and adds color. I loved the long vista from the kitchen that continues through the door and windows in the sunroom to the landscape beyond.

Den / seating area with opportunity to be a secondary bedroom

Hinged French doors lead from the kitchen to the den with its exterior door to the terrace. Since there are a living room and a sunroom for sitting areas, if I were lucky to live here, I would furnish this space as a dining room. My sideboard would fit under the artwork and my antique round table and chairs would be perfectly scaled for this room. Once again, I admired the placement of a mirror on the side wall as another “window”.

Primary bedroom on second floor, located at the front corner of the house

The second floor contains two bedrooms and one bath off the hall that connects the rooms. The primary bedroom is located at the front corner of the house and is a confection in white with accents of the warm wood floors and the wood chest. The white headboard disappears into the white shiplap wall to add another layer of texture and the shamrocks on a white background of the bedding and the cushioned bench add subtle color along with the artwork.

Second floor guest bedroom

The guest bedroom is located at the other corner of the second floor. The open pattern of the off-white rattan daybed allows the sunlight from the window to fully penetrate the space. The different species and shades of wood in the floor and chest of drawers contrasts with the white walls and ceiling.

Upper level deck above the sunroom/kitchen areas

I ended my tour enjoying the breezes across the fabulous deck above the sunroom/kitchen areas below-a fitting coda to this remarkable cottage in the picturesque village of Neavitt. From the deck, I savored the beautiful layout of the colorful gardens that meander around the perimeter of the rear yard. The view soothed my soul and was a peaceful respite from my work day. This fully renovated house has the feel of a Long Island summer cottage but its sophisticated interiors that blend shiplap with French Bergere chairs are more city than country-Brava to the Owner whose talent for both interior design and landscaping created this haven in a small village close to St. Michaels’ shops and restaurants. 

For more information about this property, contact Joan Wetmore with TTR Sotheby’s International Realty, 410-673-3344 (o), 410-924-2432 (c) or [email protected]. For more photographs and pricing visit https://www.sothebysrealty.com/ttrsir/eng,  “Equal Housing Opportunity”.

Photography by True Place, (301) 972-3201, www.go.truplace.com.

Two years ago, the fundraising campaign for the St. Michaels Community Center began with a reception at the Neavitt home of architect Mark McInturff FAIA. Mark explained his design through a model that showed how skillfully he had transformed a former lumberyard into a renovated facility that would fulfill the needs of the community.

This week, that goal was realized by the ribbon cutting ceremony. The celebration began at 11:00 before a crowd of SMCC staff, Board Members, the Design/Construction team and the public stakeholders. Before the ribbon cutting, SMCC Chair Lori Morris, Executive Director Patrick Rofe, SMCC Vice-Chair Langley Shook and Senator Johnny Mautz spoke briefly about the long road from model to building.

Other people who had made significant contributions were recognized, including former SMCC Board Chair Karen Shook, who became a de-facto Project Manager, Tracy and Scott Wagner, whose financial contribution was the largest private gift to the fundraising campaign, Benson Harper of Harper Construction and  Landscape Designer Jan Kirsh for her pro-bono design of the welcoming plaza and installation services for the seating and planting. 

After the ceremony, everyone was invited to tour the building. Staff offices are located at part of the upper level, which maximizes the lower level space for a multi-purpose room, large commercial kitchen, restrooms, and classrooms. The Community Café and Pantry have returned to the building from their temporary locations. They are open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 1 to 3 p.m. for eat-in, take-out or delivery. 

The SMCC is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. If you missed the tour, click on this link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S6etEoBP-AM and prepare to be amazed!

Front elevation of five-bay home on Easton Village’s only boulevard.

North Fork is the only boulevard in the Easton Village neighborhood and this charming home is ideally situated on one side of the boulevard between two trees that frame the house. The five-bay house is set high enough for privacy but not so high as to discourage interaction with neighbors on their daily strolls. The exterior color palette of pale green cementitious siding with white trim, the darker color of the low slope roof over the front porch, and the attention paid to scale, proportion, and detailing create great curb appeal.

Welcoming front porch

As I walked up the steps to the front porch, I first admired the porch’s depth, unlike so many shallow ones I have seen that have no room for chairs and circulation. This porch is a true outdoor room and the wide front door with its heron knocker, full glass sidelights and full transom separate spaces for sitting and dining. I also admired how the tall windows stretch up to the underside of the ceiling’s trim with an extra layer of trim above the windows’ headers. 

Open vista from the front door to the rear door of the screened porch beyond

When the Owner opened the door to welcome me, I realized this was the first time I had seen this house model with its two-room wide, four-room deep plan with a direct open vista from the front door to the rear door of the screened porch beyond. I especially liked how the wall planes step back to recede into the distance and how the column supporting dropped beams with moldings defines the edge of the dining area at the foyer. The beautiful wood floors below the bright white ceiling flow throughout the floor plan.

Set to one side of the foyer is an elegant dining room and u-shaped staircase

On one side of the foyer is the elegant dining room, with the table and Chippendale chairs anchored by an Oriental rug whose earth colors complement the color of the wood floor. The tall windows filter sunlight into the room from the front porch and the plantation shutters can be tilted to adjust the privacy level desired. As I walked past the “U” shaped stairs to the second floor, I noted the landing window that casts direct sunlight below. 

Opposite side of foyer features a multi-purpose room perfect for a parlor or guest bedroom

On the other side of the foyer is a multi-purpose room that could be a parlor or study as it is currently furnished. The wide closet would support any option and by infilling the wall to the foyer with pocket French doors, this space could also become a guest bedroom. I admired how the color and pattern of the rug complement the dining room rug’s design.

Through the vista, the open floor plan walks you directly into an L shaped, modern kitchen featuring tray ceiling and a large island.

The foyer’s center hall ends at the open plan kitchen-breakfast-family room-screened porch. The kitchen’s tray ceiling adds both extra height and a surface for recessed task lighting. I admired how the short side walls at the kitchen’s “L” shaped perimeter enclose the cabinetry on one side and create a recess for the R/F on the other side for a sleek look. The wide and long island with its accent of black cabinetry has a recessed area for the two bar-height chairs. 

The white cabinet/backsplash combo and and stainless steel appliances are cozied up with granite countertops and warm lighting.

The line of cabinetry on the wall opposite the island becomes a convenient buffet for entertaining with extra storage below and the wall is decorated with photographs and art from the Owners’ travels. I could not agree more with the lettering over the upper cabinets that proclaims “Family-laugh-love-live”.  The kitchen’s interior design of white cabinets and backsplash, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances certainly pleased this cook and the amber color of the island’s pendant lighting complemented the space’s earth tones. 

The breakfast area flows easily into the family room.

The wide double window unit defines the breakfast area and offers a tranquil view of the side garden to the privacy fence beyond. The round table encourages conversation and can be expanded for guests as needed for informal meals.

Delightful indoor-outdoor space created by family room / screened porch arrangement

The family room-screened porch is a delightful indoor-outdoor space. The family room’s bright white ceiling and wall color accentuate the 12-foot ceiling height and the rear wall’s French door, two long windows and full-height transoms filter sunlight into the room. On either side of the fireplace, built-in millwork in a mix of cabinets below open shelving provides ample space for family photographs, books, and displays.

View from the living room looking through to the front door vista shows thoughtful ceiling height variations

From the rear wall of the family room, the vista to the front door unfolds like a kaleidoscope, framed by the wide wall opening between the family room and the kitchen. I admired how the contractor had enhanced the house’s simple rectangular form by the sequence of ceiling changes in height, from the 9-foot ceilings in the foyer/office/dining room and the primary suite to the 10-foot ceiling in the kitchen/breakfast room, ending in the dramatic 12-foot ceiling in the great room/screened porch. Tray ceilings and moldings provided additional architectural character throughout the house.

Screened porch off of living room

The family room’s 12 foot ceiling extends into the delightful screened porch with its light and airy feel from the wrap-around screened panels. The arrangement of the screened panels’ framing creates large “picture windows” for tranquil views of the side and rear garden areas. Since the rear wall of the porch faces west, shades at this wall can be lowered against glare or excessive heat. The striped rug and rattan furnishings create an inviting warm weather sitting room.

Screen porch steps lead down to garden

From the screened porch, steps lead down to the garden and to the hardscaped terrace shaded by a large umbrella. At the rear of the property is an alley to access the garage and parking for guest cars in the driveway.

Primary Bedroom

On the other side of the center hall behind the front study, is a full bath, laundry, primary ensuite and the garage. The bedroom’s pale aqua wall color is very soothing and the room’s spacious size accommodates both the sleeping and sitting areas.   

Primary Bathroom

The bath’s galley layout works well with the dual vanity including a sit-down area opposite the toilet compartment and the shower with its glass door opposite the tub. Windows over the tub provide direct sunlight and the window in the toilet compartment has a filter over the glass for privacy. 

1 of 2 second floor guest bedrooms

The second floor contains guest bedrooms, a hall bath and an unfinished storage room. Two of the bedrooms are located at the front corners of the house so both rooms have two windows on each exterior wall for abundant sunlight. Blue and yellow are complementary colors on the color wheel and this charming bedroom would please any guest. I especially liked how the pale yellow walls highlighted the white iron bedframes, blue striped bedskirts, white quilts, blue blanket and the blue and yellow accent pillows.

 As an architect, it is always a pleasure to tour a house that was built to the highest level of construction as this house that was built by one of Easton’s premier builders. The open floor plan from the front door to the rear wall of the screened porch has abundant sunlight from the numerous front, rear and side windows and the changes in ceiling heights makes each space unique.   The variety of delightful outdoor rooms from the spacious front porch, the large rear screened porch and the hardscaped terrace with an umbrella for shade beckon one to relax to the sound of birds and the fragrance of the garden’s flowers. All this and an irresistible location close to downtown Easton’s amenities and the Marlborough shopping areas! 

For more information about this property, contact Janet Larson at Benson & Mangold Real Estate, 410-822-6665 (o), 410-310-1797 (c), or [email protected]. For more pictures and pricing, visit www.shoremove.com , www.bensonandmangold.com “Equal Housing Opportunity”.

Construction: Keith Prettyman, 410-820-4358 www.prettymanconstructioninc.com

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Aerial view of the unique waterfront lot in Tilghman-on-Chesapeake development

This house, built in 2008 at the end of a cul-de-sac in the Tilghman-on-Chesapeake development, is sited on a unique waterfront lot at the point where Harris Creek empties into the Choptank River. Walking along the shoreline,  I was mesmerized by the 180-degree panoramic view across the wide expanse of the Choptank River that ends at the thin line of the horizon at Dorchester County. The property’s 0.75 acres seem much larger due to its being adjacent to carefully preserved coastal wetlands and the community common area. The house was carefully sited high above the ground to maximize views across the water from all of the main rooms in the house. 

Side view including raised deck with an outdoor kitchen area overlooking Choptank River

The angled and compact footprint of the house in enhanced by a bay window and a sunroom projection to focus views of the water.  Multiple gables and shed roofs articulate the architecture and the house reaches out to the water by a variety of outdoor rooms on both levels of the house. At the first floor, a raised deck with an outdoor kitchen area that is approximately 2000 sf (!) has a sweeping curved shape for panoramic views.  Part of the deck is shaded by the outdoor rooms at the second floor.  

Thanks to low-maintenance exterior materials, there will be plenty of time to enjoy the 180 degree panoramic view from the main floor deck

Since the exterior of the house has low maintenance materials including Hardiplank siding, Azek trim, Ipe and composite decking, you have more time to relax on the decks on each floor and enjoy the parade of abundant wildlife in the marshes and the water that surrounds the property, including eagles, herons, and ospreys that return to their nests in the spring. Start your day watching the sun rise and end the day by cooking dinner in the outdoor kitchen area and dining al-fresco. 

A welcoming foyer features high ceilings, gleaming solid oak hardwood floor accented by large inlaid compass rose design

After climbing steps to the front door, I reached the deep veranda that spans the length of the gable wing of the house with both an entry door and another door at the side wall that enters directly into the kitchen.  When I entered the foyer, the high ceilings, gleaming solid oak hardwood floor accented by the large inlaid compass rose design, paneled doors and the transom over the doorway to the powder room introduced the highest level of construction and attention to detail that I found throughout the house.

Open concept living / dining room features expansive windows and glass doors in an open-concept living room with a cozy fireplace and elegant coffered ceiling, leading to a defined dining area with a customizable two-tier display shelf and tall, ceiling-reaching windows.

As I moved through the foyer, my focus was on the stunning vista through the windows to the water that I almost missed the step down to the open plan living-dining-kitchen area. The living room’s corner fireplace leaves the two exterior walls free for unobstructed views; the side wall has a rhythm of three windows with transoms and the rear wall is filled with a pair of glass doors and a wide picture window flanked by side units, all with transoms to maximize the views of the marsh and water. The coffered ceiling works with the room’s geometry and the comfortable furnishings are arranged for TV watching or relaxing by the fire. 

To define the edge of the dining area, a high two-tier open shelf millwork for display gives one the option to add a sideboard of one’s own taste below. I especially admired the tall windows that stretch to the underside of the high ceiling. 

Dinner with a view from the corner dining room area

The dining room’s corner location has wrap-around walls of windows and doors to maximize the water views. The rear wall is a bay projection with a center picture window flanked by single units with transoms above that match the living room’s units’ design. The other wall is detailed with a pair of glass doors between single units with transoms above. The lovely Oriental rug anchors the arrangement of the wood dining table with a mix of Chippendale and upholstered chairs.

Kitchen features custom cream cabinetry and top-of-the-line appliances

The gourmet kitchen overlooking the living-dining area would please any chef with top-of-the-line appliances and generous counter space. I admired the design of the cream colored cabinetry’s base details to resemble furniture with moldings and legs that contrasted with the darker tone of the granite countertops. The upper cabinets extend to the ceiling for extra storage space. The stylish pendant lighting that reminded me of Murano glass was the finishing touch. 

A cozy off-kitchen sunroom provides wrap-around views

The sunroom off the kitchen projects beyond the exterior wall of the house with wrap-around windows for 180 degree views of the landscape, the marsh and the water.  This cozy space is perfect for TV watching, games or quiet time. The wood slat ceiling with two skylights and tile floor set on the diagonal to visually stretch the space give this room an indoor-outdoor feel.  An exterior door leads to the deck.

The remainder of the first floor contains the garage wing with a storage room and a secondary stair to the second floor.

Second-floor hall offers tucked nooks perfect for displaying a few of your favorite things.

The second floor contains three bedroom ensuites and the laundry. The stair hall is more than a circulation path-its angled portion creates nooks and offsets for exploration. As a bibliophile, I lingered in one large nook that is a mini-library with a free-standing bookcase and recessed arched topped open shelf millwork. Two comfortable chairs beneath a window beckon one to curl up with a great book. Shed dormers with windows stream abundant light into the hall and the knee walls and dropped beams articulate the interior architecture. I admired the transoms over the doors, reminiscent of ventilation before the advent of AC. 

Primary bedroom boasts a fireplace, ensuite bathroom, and tranquil covered viewing deck

The second floor contains three bedroom ensuites and the laundry. The luxurious primary bedroom is located above the living room area below and also has a corner fireplace. The blue and cream color scheme is restful and the wall of glass doors and side windows leads to the waterside-covered deck.

View from the primary bedroom’s covered deck

My fave room is the spacious covered deck that spans across the rear walls of the primary bedroom and bath. The deck is covered except for the hot tub area which is open to the sky. Beams define its open area and lattice panels provide privacy. How wonderful it would be to relax in the hot tub after a long day with a glass of bubbly and star gazing at night!

Bright master bathroom has a lux tub, shower, and earth-tone tiling.

The primary bath’s galley arrangement of the tub and shower opposite the lavatories and toilet allows space for a door directly to the adjacent deck‘s hot tub. The earth tones of the interior design are soothing and I admired the tiled accents in the flooring and the niche above the tub. The glass block inserted into the wall between the tub and shower brings light into the spacious shower.

Two ensuite guest bedrooms offer ample space for long weekends

Next to the primary suite is a smaller bedroom ensuite that also overlooks the water.  The third-bedroom ensuite is above the angled wing behind the main wing of the house. What it lacks in direct water views is more than compensated by this bedroom’s huge size due to its location over the double garage below.  Its playful ceiling plane defined by the pitched roof intersected with a mix of shed and single dormers along the side walls gives this space great interior architectural character. Closets tucked into the walls create an alcove for the pencil post bedframe anchored by the large Oriental rug in a blues and yellow pattern. The finishing touch is the oval decorative window high above the bed.

Charming second-floor bathroom

The guest bath is just the right size for the basic fixtures and I especially liked the tile pattern on the floor and the free-standing porcelain lavatory. The bright blue towels add a splash of color. 

This property sets the bar very high for waterfront properties for many reasons. First and foremost is its incomparable site, surrounded by four+ acres of pristine preserved coastal wetlands and a non-developable community common area for unobstructed water views across Harris Creek to Neavitt & south to the Tred Avon River, viewed from the outdoor rooms of the large main floor deck and partially covered second-floor deck.  On a clear night, you can see the Cambridge Bridge lights! The site’s solar orientation to the east and south combined with the numerous windows and doors provides abundant sunlight throughout the day. 

The low maintenance exterior materials, the highest level of construction with numerous architectural details, high ceilings, open plan living-dining-kitchen areas, and the second-floor ensuites give this house great appeal. Last but not least, there is space for an elevator and the house was built to withstand a Category 3  hurricane. All this and its location in the Tilghman-on-Chesapeake neighborhood whose community amenities include a large clubhouse, swimming pool, and marina with picnic areas. For more information about this property, contact Laura Carney, Senior Vice President with TTR Sotheby’s International Realty at 410-673-3344 (o), 410-310-3307 (c) or [email protected] or [email protected]. For more photographs and pricing, visit  www.lauracarney.com ,“Equal Housing Opportunity.”

Architect: Jay Corvin, www.jaycorvan-architect.com, 410) 476-1800

Contractor: Frank E. Daffin, Inc., www.frankedaffininc.com , (410) 822-2364 

House Photography by Jim McKee, 703-593-4392

View from drive

Waterfront houses with shorelines facing south enjoy the ideal solar orientation for sunny rooms throughout the day. Today’s featured house was sited not only to capture the southern light but also to maximize its spectacular 180-degree vistas up and down the Miles River.  This charming house began its life as a guest house for the Ingleton manor house but was moved to its current location.  

Talbot County has been home to many famous people but as an opera fan, I was especially intrigued to learn that this house’s former owners include a famous operatic baritone, John Charles Thomas. This house was his second home and his haven between his worldwide engagements, including Carnegie Hall and the Metropolitan Opera.  

After driving along a meandering gravel driveway past a vernacular landscape of barns and mature trees, I reached the parking area. Before going in for my tour, I paused to appreciate the tranquil setting of the house nestled in mature trees. I also admired the house’s rich massing from the bay-shaped projections and the one-story shed-roofed addition to the original house. 

Entry elevation featuring hipped and gabled roof

The additional scope of work also included modifying the original “front” porch since the main entry had been from the rear waterfront screened porch. The porch columns were modified in the craftsman style and from this side, the hipped and gabled roof continued the very appealing massing of the house.  The light gray cementitious siding and white trim is classic as is the Eastern Shore vernacular architecture with its harmonious blend of American Four-Square and National Folk styles.

Waterside elevation with steps leading to views of the Miles River

I especially liked the waterside elevation with the screened porch that spans the full length of the main wing next to the two-story bay-shaped projection. Steps lead down from the porch to the deep and broad lawn so one can fully appreciate the views of the Miles River. The Owners carefully located flowering plants and trees throughout their 3.5-acre lot and during my visit, the landscape was beginning to awaken from its winter slumber. Hardscaped walkways surround the house so one can stroll through the landscape and enjoy views of the water. 

Interior screened porch with its exposed roof framing, wood flooring and bays

I loved the design of the screened porch with its exposed roof framing, wood flooring, and bays defined by elaborate turned and carved columns and solid fretwork detailed with an arched bottom below a circle cutout. The center pair of double-screened doors create spaces on either side for sitting and dining. When open, the pair of screened doors offers a wide unobstructed view of the lawn to the river. The horizontal framing allows privacy without compromising the water views.

Waterside area with a heated gunite pool, partially covered by a pergola

Another outdoor room is the waterside area with a heated gunite pool, partially covered by a wood pergola on stone piers, and a separate spa that creates an outdoor entertaining area halfway between the house and the gazebo/pier area beyond that is framed by the pergola.

Beautiful gazebo overlooking easy to access pier

The peaceful gazebo area offers several possibilities for relaxation. Launch a boat from the pier for a day on the water or escape the summer heat in the gazebo. Enjoy an al-fresco dinner as the sun slowly sets, or later in the evening settle into the chairs around the firepit at the river’s edge and enjoy the splendor of the sky on a clear night.   

Tall windows in the dining and living rooms frame French doors to the porch flooding the spaces with light.

I began my tour of the interiors in the living, dining, and kitchen areas connected by wide wall openings that create an open-plan layout. The beautiful original wood floors and the color palette of serene neutrals accented with pillows and the matchstick blinds for texture create a warm and welcoming space for relaxation. The tall windows in both the dining and living rooms on either side of the French doors to the screened porch stretch to the underside of the ten-foot ceilings and flood the spaces with light. The fish sculpture floating in the transom above the French doors is a colorful touch of whimsy.

Living room side wall featuring millwork and windows on each side of the fireplace

The side wall of the living room has a lovely rhythm of millwork and a long single window above a cushioned seat on each side of the fireplace detailed with corbeled brick that creates a deep mantel. I admired how the millwork did not extend to the underside of the ceiling so it appears to be a piece of furniture. The wood accents of the coffee table, patterned upholstered pieces, and the color splash of the teal pillows complete the serene look.

Glass-fronted millwork leads into L shaped kitchen with lowered island perfect for relaxed dining

The living room’s side unit of glass-fronted millwork next to the kitchen displays serving pieces. The wide wall opening to the kitchen frames the “L” shaped island arrangement underneath the shed roof’s ceiling.  The island’s lowered counter is a great spot for breakfast or any informal meal with views across the living room windows through the screened porch to the landscape and the river beyond. The skylight above the kitchen sink window and the side window bring in sunlight that is reflected by the white surfaces of both the ceiling and the cabinets. 

Charming, well-lit dining area perfect for larger gatherings

The dining area has a beautiful oval wood dining table surrounded by a mix of wood and upholstered chairs anchored by the large rug in a subtle pattern. Two extra upholstered chairs in the living room can be used for larger family celebrations. I admired the dining room’s wood pieces around the perimeter of the room in their varied sizes and wood designs. A pair of French pocket doors lead to the office area.

French pocket doors lead to the office area, feating bay wall projection and wrap-around windows

The office is a delightful space created by the bay wall projection with a window seat for breaks from computer work to admire the views through the wrap-around windows. The stair to the second floor begins with two wide treads that infill the wall’s geometry.  During the time John Charles Thomas lived here, the wide wall opening became a proscenium and the raised floor became his stage. He generously invited his neighbors over to enjoy concerts from his repertoire ranging from opera to musical theater selections. The only price of admission was that each patron needed to bring their own folding chair!

Main floor tv room addition 

A door at the rear wall of the living room leads to the addition by the current Owners. Next to a full bath is a cozy TV room with a smaller bay wall projection for views of the landscape. The light aqua wall color is soothing and I could well imagine propping my feet up on the extended sofa to watch my fave PBS shows. My only change would be to infill the bay window with cushioned seating so my cat could doze in the sun and have a front row seat of the landscape.

Charming main-floor ensuite

Behind the TV room is a bedroom with charming interior architecture from the windows on two side walls for sunlight throughout the day and the ceiling plane that follows the slope of the shed roof above to create extra height. If I were a guest, I would be quite happy to be shown to this quiet corner for an extended stay. With the adjacent TV room and full bath, this suite could also become a main floor primary ensuite.

Fantastic views of the landscape and water from the homes primary bedroom

The primary bedroom is located above the office’s bay wall projection and is accessed by an adjacent sitting room with pocket French doors to the bedroom. All of the exterior walls are infilled with windows for fantastic views of the landscape and water. As a bibliophile, I usually have several books stacked on my nightstand so I envied the clever detail of the built-in shelving around the perimeter of the angled walls for books, displays, and family photos. The soft blue and white bed linens and the warm trim color create a restful retreat.

Primary bathroom with tub and recessed area for the toilet

The primary bath arrangement works very well with separate lavatories, the shower opposite the tub angled against the corner and the recessed area for the toilet. The primary bedroom’s trim color extends into this room’s trim and wainscot and the floor tile set on the diagonal visually expands the space. The large framed mirror becomes another “window”. 

I loved this property’s spectacular broad views of the Miles River and the blend of American Four-Square and National Folk architecture enhanced with bay windows to offer expansive views from within. To me, this exquisite house is a “Goldilocks” house- a “just right” compact floor plan containing spacious rooms, high ceilings, and tall windows offering abundant sunlight and cross vistas to the landscape and Miles River. Having primary bedroom ensuites on both floors is a bonus and the interior French pocket doors create easy flow among the rooms. The range of waterside outdoor rooms from the screened porch, pool terrace, pergola and the gazebo contributes to this property’s great appeal. My compliments to the Owners for being such careful stewards of this “diamond” by their thoughtful renovations that maintained the historic elements that give this house its unique charm. Bravo!

For more information about this property, contact Meg Moran, GRI, Associate Broker, Top 100 Agents 2023, with Long and Foster Real Estate Forbes Global Properties at 410-770-3600 (o), 410-310-2209 (c), or [email protected]. For more photographs and pricing visit www.megmoran.com , “Equal Housing Opportunity.” 

Photography by Eve Fishell, Chesapeake Pro Photo LLC, 443-786-8025, www.chesapeakeprophoto.com, [email protected]