Are you looking for a retreat from the everyday, a special place to call your own that is far from the madding crowd, yet convenient to all that Baltimore has to offer? Look no further – this spectacular gated home is located on 3 private acres near Lake Roland.
The California contemporary was built in 1951 by one of the boat-building Owens brothers who were “known for using top-quality materials in their boats such as "white oak for the stern and framing, copper and brass fastenings, and mahogany imported from the Philippines for planking and finishing work."*
Evidence of this craftsmanship and attention to detail is in evidence throughout, particularly in the library/dining room, where teak that was used in their boats was used in for the floor and 4" thick door between library and living room. Complimenting that theme, the current owner added floor to ceiling bookshelves and custom cabinets with drawers.
The low profile front entrance that blends into the surroundings can be deceiving, but the approach up the drive reveals the full extent of the 6-bedroom home. Following the contours of the land, the house nestles into a hillside, and walls of windows provide incredible light throughout.
From slate floored entry hall into the breathtaking living room, there is an airy feeling of lightness and space that continues throughout the house. (It's like the outside is inside, too!) The hallway to three of the bedrooms is divided from the living room by a stone half wall with unique sliding panels above, and the 2-sided fireplace on the opposite wall opens to the library.
If you are thinking that this 1951 home may feel dated, you could not be further from the truth. The kitchen features stainless steel appliances, including a subzero refrigerator and granite countertops. A vaulted skylight floods the room with natural light and a half wall of cabinets separates it from the sunken family room.
An enormous screened porch with multiple sitting areas provides a bug free haven at the height of Baltimore's bug season. The quiet setting allows for long naps or even overnight sleeping.
The huge lower level includes exposed brick, fireplace and wet bar in the billiards room, a second family room area, two bedrooms and a workroom. The billiards room and both bedrooms have sliding doors that open onto flagstone patios.
Speaking of patios…there are abundant outdoor entertaining spaces set amidst the professional landscaping, including an incredible pool privately located down a flagstone path from the house. The poolhouse features a wet bar and full bath, with a built in grill just outside.
With so much entertaining space, both in and out, you will want to invite your friends and family over but be careful – they may never want to leave!
This article only skims the surface of the many, many details that make this one of the most special homes in the area. Call Whit Harvey now at 443.286.5808 for your private tour – you won’t be disappointed.
*From a 2007 Style Magazine article, Mary K. Zajac