The Clairmont Residence
Whole-Home Renovation + Two-Level Rear + Attic Expansion + Rooftop Deck
University Park, MD
The Clairmont Residence is a comprehensive reimagining of a 1926 home, guided by a commitment to preserve its original street-facing character while introducing a contemporary architectural expansion to the rear. Through a full home renovation, two-level rear addition, attic expansion, and rooftop deck, the residence was transformed to feel light, composed, and enduring. Scandinavian principles of clarity, material honesty, and restraint inform the design, while carefully curated moments of depth and atmosphere create contrast throughout. The result is a home that balances heritage and modernity with quiet confidence and architectural precision.
The Clairmont Residence was featured in Architectural Digest for its thoughtful balance of historic preservation and contemporary architectural expression.
Project Details
Scope: Whole-Home Renovation + Two-Level Rear Addition
Additional Work: Attic Expansion, Rooftop Deck, Garage Expansion
Services: Architecture, Interior Design, Construction
Exterior Materials: Original brick façade (preserved), EIFS (stucco) garage expansion, mitre-cut 7” fiber cement siding, western red cedar fencing
Special Considerations: Structural underpinning, interior and exterior waterproofing system, historic façade preservation
Design & Materiality
Material selections throughout the residence were curated to reflect Scandinavian restraint layered with sculptural presence. Expansive ceilings and herringbone-patterned polished tile amplify natural light, while moments of weight and drama emerge through cast stone, leathered quartzite, and richly pigmented finishes. Warm cherry wood soffits and western red cedar introduce softness and continuity across interior and exterior spaces, creating a deliberate rhythm between lightness and depth.
Design Philosophy
The design process was guided by disciplined empathy—deeply understanding the client’s aspirations while orchestrating complex architectural and construction decisions with precision. Extensive study of Nordic and Scandinavian design traditions informed a language of clarity and restraint, balanced by moments of expressive contrast.
before photos
Planning a whole-home renovation or architectural addition?
Schedule a private consultation to explore feasibility, timing, and next steps.