5917 Wilmett Rd, Bethesda, MD 20817

This residence is a testament to what can be achieved when sensible owners engage a talented architect and work in unison to create a residence which is elegant and logical. Circumspection was exercised in the design of this house that offers more than 4,900 square feet of finished living space, which is not immediately discernible because of its symmetrical and restrained façade. Instead of relying upon multiple gables, irregular fenestrations, and superfluous details, the architect created a new house that is dignified and straightforward. The spirit of the original c. 1947 was maintained in the new construction in 2004, which resulted in a comfortable and contemporary interior. The rear façade of the house is as pleasing as the front, offering a second story shed dormer which is reminiscent of many of the Foursquare houses that populated the area in the early part of the 20th century. Skylights provide a natural source of illumination for the loggia below. The interior is a combination of an open floor plan for the public spaces, including the kitchen and living areas, but is preceded by a traditional foyer flanked by a library and separate dining room. Both the living room and library have gas fireplaces, and the entire house has a sprinkler system that is responsive by room. The first floor benefits from abundant natural light from French doors that open onto the garden, and a large mudroom and laundry is a convenient place to enter from the one-car detached garage. A large powder room is found on the main level and a butler’s pantry joins the kitchen with the dining room. The principal suite is found on the first floor, offering an ensuite bathroom, two individual walk-in closets and separate dressing area. Four bedrooms are located on the second floor, three of which have ensuite bathrooms. The bedrooms open onto a large landing, which can be used as a communal living space. A fifth room on this floor currently serves as an storage. The lower level offers 12-foot ceilings and comprises almost 600 square feet of finished living space. There is a sixth bedroom, bathroom, linen closet, central living space, storage space under the stairs, and several large closets as well as a storage room. The mechanical systems have been impeccably maintained. The front and rear gardens offer an opportunity for anyone to create their own space among the mature plantings that have already been incorporated into the landscape.