HOME THERAPY
A custom abode in McLean reflects the growing demand for personal-wellness amenities at home. “Over the last several years, we’ve seen gyms augmented by pools, halotherapy and chromotherapy spas and more,” observes architect Greg Palmer, AIA, of Harrison Design, who collaborated with colleague Bulent Baydar, AIA, on this 32-foot-long indoor pool that features adjacent massage, bath and changing rooms. A vaulted, beamed ceiling and oversized doors and windows impart an airy feel to the space. Builder: Artisan Builders. Interior Design: Tracy Morris Design. 

COZY SPOT
While revamping a Georgetown manse, Overmyer Architects and Tracy Morris tucked a cozy nook into a capacious lower-level entertaining space—answering a frequent request for intimate nests in large, open homes. Here, a game table occupies a niche beside the fireplace. “The owners enjoy board games with friends,” recounts project architect Laura Rowland, “but it’s also a space away from the bustle of the party.” Navy Phillip Jeffries Studs & Stripes grass cloth creates a moody vibe. Renovation Contractor: Goldsborough Design/Build. Interior Design: Tracy Morris Design. 

DOUBLE DUTY
Answering what he says is a prevalent call for flexible work spaces, architect Charles Warren, AIA, of Teass \ Warren Architects integrated a client’s Chevy Chase home office with a mudroom/pantry to create a command center. “It’s a multifunctional room that connects with the other living areas,” he explains. “Pocket doors close it off if needed.” Blue-painted cabinetry fabricated by Abernethy Sticks incorporates a desk with a white oak surface opposite a wall containing pantry storage. A mid-century vibe prevails. Renovation Contractor: The Block Builders Group. 

OUTSIDE THE DOGHOUSE
Accommodating furry friends is a high priority in today’s homes—as architect Mark Kaufman, AIA, of GTM Architects can attest. Among the animal-friendly features he’s been asked to install: showers, ramps, sleeping nooks, electronic doors and pull-out litter boxes. He recently outfitted a Bethesda mudroom with a dog shower, complete with temperature control and a low curb for easy access. “Clients understand that pets are part of the family,” he says. Builder: Sandy Spring Builders. Interior Design: Annette Hannon Interior Design. 

GOING GREEN
While designing a sprawling, modern dwelling overlooking DC’s Battery Kemble Park, architect Wouter Boer, AIA, and colleague Philip McGee of Wouter Boer Architects relied on green roof systems to prevent runoff and meet National Park Service stormwater-management requirements. “The green roof creates the illusion that the park extends all the way to the upper floors,” notes Boer, who took advantage of the spectacular site with his elegantly proportioned structures.
Builder: Zantzinger. Landscape Architecture: Campion Hruby Landscape Architects. Green Roof Consultant: Furbish. 

SPA RETREAT
“Clients are using their bathrooms to escape and relax,” observes architect James Rill, AIA, of Rill Architects. “We’re seeing soaking tubs with a book and a beverage.” When Bethesda clients requested a spa-like bath, he and Cara Medeiros, a designer on his staff, delivered with a sumptuous soaking tub, a glass-enclosed shower and walls clad in swirling marble. The retreat boasts elements Rill predicts more luxe baths will offer in the future: abundant natural light, indoor-outdoor connection and one-of-a-kind style. Builder: Woodhaven Contractors. 

MOMENT OF ZEN
Meditative spaces are trending as a post-pandemic focus on health and wellbeing blooms. When McLean clients tapped Anthony Wilder Design/Build to redo their bedroom suite, architectural designers Anthony Wilder and Maria Fanjul proposed an indoor-outdoor refuge. They connected the reimagined bath to a serene deck via a window wall; scattered stones inside and out conjure a Zen vibe. “The owners use the spaces to relax and escape the stresses of the day,” says Wilder.