HISTORIC POTOMAC FARMHOUSE
A HARMONIOUS ADDITION
Originally built in 1938 and designed by the firm of Pope and Kruse, this Pennsylvania Dutch style farmhouse is a fine example of depression era estate architecture in the area.
Retained by the client, we were tasked with crafting a rear addition that was sympathetic to the existing structure. A new family room addition off of the existing kitchen helped to create a shallow rear porch at the rear of the main block of the house. Meanwhile, a new screened porch placed at the rear of the existing garage is connected by a light-filled gallery. Detailing took its clues from the existing modest colonial trims while materials were in keeping with the existing house's palate.
The house is a listed National Register property. Our services included required reviews by the Montgomery County, MD Historic Preservation Commission.
AWARD-WINNING
This project won the 2023 Qualified Remodeler Design Award: Outdoor Living - Bronze
HISTORIC ELEGANCE
REAR EXTERIOR BEFORE & AFTER
A seamless addition:
When it comes to historic renovations and additions, it's a mark of success when the new elements look as if they've always been part of the structure. The 'After' image of this project reflects the care taken to maintain the character of the home. Without seeing the 'Before' image, it would be difficult to tell which elements were additions to the original house.
BEFORE
AFTER
CLIENT'S THOUGHTS
Mike Rouse did a major renovation on our historic farmhouse in Potomac, Md. Mike listened carefully to our wish list, proposed ideas we never could have come up with on our own, and made our dreams become a reality. He reconfigured a staircase, bedrooms, and bathrooms so as to accommodate our growing family, added a family room off of our kitchen, a gallery, a magnificent screened-in porch, and an outdoor kitchen. Because the house is on the National Historic Register, he had the added challenge of needing to meet their approval (not an easy feat). Throughout the renovation process, he was always responsive to us and to our contractors and was on top of every detail.
The result is spectacular! Mike was able to modernize our house and expand our living spaces all while maintaining the character and charm of our historic home.
He is without doubt a most talented and creative architect. On top of everything else, working with Mike was an absolute pleasure. We cannot recommend him more highly!
- LIZETTE & STEPHEN C.
Potomac, MD
Interior Design by Client
Photography by Stacy Zarin Goldberg Photography
