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Under Contract: Custom Chloethiel Woodard Smith in Somerset
My listing for this custom mid-century modern in Somerset in Chevy Chase by renowned female modernist architect Chloethiel Woodard Smith went under contract in a week with multiple offers. It was listed for $1.385 million.
Smith’s 1950 “upside-down” house design in the coveted neighborhood of Somerset is unlike any other.
The primary bedroom has walls of glass and looks out to parkland. Photos by Tod Connell.
The house features floor-to-ceiling windows and views from all rooms of the ever-changing landscape of adjacent parkland. Watching the deer, foxes, owls, chipmunks, and array of songbirds, you’ll almost forget you’re walking distance to Friendship Heights metro and Whole Foods. Located a block from Somerset Elementary and the Somerset town pool, this 6-bedroom, 2.5 bath nearly 2,700 square-foot gem was completely renovated while retaining its original mid-century vibe.
The entrance retains the original mid-century materials.
The upper level foyer is flooded with light. The main bedroom has floor-to-ceiling windows facing the park and an adjacent bedroom/study has a brick fireplace.
Two additional bedrooms on this level are located in a separate wing. Two sparkling new bathrooms feature high-efficiency plumbing, lovely marble and glass tilework, and a modern soaking tub.
After descending the elegant wood-paneled stairway you are immediately struck by the expansive view of the perennial garden and forest from all directions. The large living room features windows on three sides and opens to an expansive slate and brick patio.
The original owners, Washington Post Business Editor, Hobart Rowan, and his family hosted many parties for well-known Washington guests in this home, which was clearly designed for entertaining.
The current owners updated the lower level to include new underfloor radiant heat and mini-split heat pumps for multi-zoned air conditioning. A sparkling new open-plan kitchen includes a Thermador gas stove, an Advantium Speedcook oven, a two-column refrigerator and freezer, all-white cabinets and countertops, and designer lighting.
The adjacent dining room includes a wall of mahogany cabinets for storing your extensive china collection and a marble buffet is also built-in. Off the kitchen, there is a half bath and a mudroom with sink, and two additional rooms which can be used as a family room, study, or additional bedrooms.
