Front Elevation

Chestertown’s North and South Queen Streets streetscapes are uniquely different in their architectural character. Much of North Queen’s single family housing stock on tree-shaded blocks dates from the 1770’s to the mid-19th century. South Queen’s streetscapes have some more recent development, including this row of townhomes with a mix of façade treatments. From the front porch and the second and third floor windows, each unit’s views of the Chester River become more expansive. 

I appreciated the massing of the development with each pair of units being offset from the adjoining pair, instead of aligning the units in a row parallel to the street. The open spaces for each unit include both a front garden area and a fenced rear area. The architectural detailing of the building’s wide and steep gables that are broken by the center eave defines each house individually and the unit’s three-bay facade with a full front porch offers great curb appeal.

Close-up front entrance

The front walkway for this unit is directly across from the sidewalk to the parking area for Wilmer Park. There is something for everyone in this park-“Aunt Sarah’s Playground”, kayak storage racks and launch, waterside walkways for daily exercise, pavilion and gazebo for picnics, and a wide and long open grass area for recreation, outdoor theater and festivals. I walked over to the park and wished it were warm enough to choose one of the waterside benches for a brief visit so I hope my next visit to Chestertown will be in warmer weather! 

Vista to house from the rear yard

The elevated deck at the rear of the townhouse overlooks a raised bed garden surrounded by a brick walkway. The perimeter fencing with a mix of solid panels topped with diagonal lattice and finials offers privacy. 

Vista through house from front door

The front Craftsman style door in deep purple opens into a hall with a vista through the house’s rear glass doors to the deck. Since the front door has a storm door, daylight can penetrate deep into each end of the house. Artwork along the hall makes this space a gallery  and adding recessed wall washer lighting fixtures along the hall would highlight the art, wall hangings, etc. I admired how the Owner Artist added colorful runners in the hall and her choice of  two different designs instead of one runner makes the hall look shorter than it is.

First-floor primary bedroom or office

The townhouse’s layout works very well with the front space either a  primary bedroom or office area as it currently furnished, the rear spaces of the open plan living-dining-kitchen area and the bathroom and laundry in between. I especially admired this office’s mola wall art between the two wide windows and the rug with its floral pattern.

First-floor primary bedroom/office bath

Off the bedroom/office is a large bath, sized for a primary bedroom, with sleek green cabinetry and the earth toned tile flooring. Next to the bath is a large walk-in closet to complete an ensuite.

Open plan dining-kitchen-living area

I always enjoy featuring interiors by an artist, for they understand color and are not afraid to use it. I loved the deep terra cotta accent wall of the dining area that  accentuates the painting on the wall far better than a white wall would.

Vista from the dining area to front door

The width of the stairs defines the dining area and the wood table and chairs complement the beautiful lighter oak flooring that flows through the house. The artful wall hanging on the stair wall adds texture to this very appealing dining area.

Kitchen, dining, living area

The kitchen’s light gray walls and the stainless steel appliances create a monochrome look for a spacious feeling and I especially liked the breakfast bar’s  contemporary pendant light fixtures. Since the kitchen has no window, my only suggestion would be to remove the two cabinets above the sink and that length of the backsplash so one could have a view of the living room.  Off the kitchen is a door to the laundry.

Living room

My fave room is the living room that spans the full width of the townhouse. This room has abundant sunlight from the glass door and full sidelight, the window next to the fireplace and the skylights. I loved the earth tones of the interior design with the mix of modern and traditional furnishings, colorful accents of the geometric rug, pillows and squares of fabric art. The simple design of the firebox recessed into the wall with the wood ledge mantel supporting personal treasures is a perfect finishing touch. 

Living room from fireplace

The other side wall of the living room contains built-in millwork surrounding the TV and space for books, sculpture, and artifacts. I loved the diagonal vista from the corner of the living room to the accent wall in the dining area.

Vista from living room to yard and urban context

The deck off the living room is a delightful outdoor room that offers a long vista and panoramic view to the row of trees in the far background, instead of a typical narrow urban alley with outbuildings.  

Second-floor stair landing

So many townhouse designs have the stairs open directly into a single loaded hall. Here, the stairs end at an enlarged landing that becomes another room,  furnished with a wood corner cabinet, the texture of the baskets on top of the cabinet, another colorful geometric patterned rug and artwork. 

Second-floor primary bedroom

Having two primary ensuites is a plus for aging in place-this second floor primary bedroom with expansive views of the Chester River is currently furnished as an office. With its three windows and spacious size, the room would be a great primary bedroom for a couple with young children. When the parents moved to the downstairs ensuite, this space could become a family TV room with a sofa bed for guests.  I loved the color of the accent wall to the third floor studio that is the same color of the primary bath for this ensuite.

Second-floor primary bath

The second floor’s primary bath’s colorful wall and the mirror’s artisan frame create a stylish backdrop for accents of towels and accessories.  

Guest bedroom

Two guest bedrooms are located at the rear of the house. If I were a guest, I would choose this bedroom for its delightful eclectic look of the Craftsman style wood bedframe, coverlet of flowering vines, antique chair and sleek contemporary nightstands. The swivel sconces frees up the nightstands’ tops for books and photographs. I appreciated how the window treatments of drapes and sheers blend into the wall and make this room’s width seem larger than it is.

Attic studio-storage

With my realtor hat on, I appreciated how the third floor bonus room was not finished in drywall or other material, since a buyer could see how well insulated this space is. Adding drywall would create dramatic interior architecture from the height variety of the knee walls, the sloped ceiling and leaving the wood cross beams exposed. I would place my writing desk under the front window for breaks from writing to enjoy the bird’s eye view of the Chester River. Having stairs instead of a pull-down unit is a plus!

Great location at the edge of downtown Chestertown with Wilmer Park as your front yard; one of only six townhome units; outdoor rooms of the front porch with views of the Chester River and rear deck overlooking the fenced yard with views of the urban landscape; great layout with primary ensuites on both the first and second floors for aging in place; open plan living-dining kitchen, updated kitchens and baths and the bonus of a third floor accessed by a stair with potential of an office, studio or easily accessible storage-great property. Brava to the Owner/Artist for her creative use of color and her very appealing and eclectic interiors! 

For more information about this property, contact Jennifer Mobley at Coldwell Banker Chesapeake Real Estate Company, 410-778-0330 (o), 443-350-5917 (c), or [email protected]. For more pictures and pricing, visit https://cbchesapeake.com/directory/agents/jennifer-mobley

“Equal Housing Opportunity”.

Photography by Janelle Stroop, Thru the Lens, 410-310-6838, [email protected].       

Contributor Jennifer Martella has pursued dual careers in architecture and real estate since she moved to the Eastern Shore in 2004. She has reestablished her architectural practice for residential and commercial projects and is a real estate agent for Meredith Fine Properties. She especially enjoys using her architectural expertise to help buyers envision how they could modify a potential property. Her Italian heritage led her to Piazza Italian Market, where she hosts wine tastings every Friday and Saturday afternoons.

Front elevation features charming wrap-around porch and high contrast shutters

Neavitt is one of my fave villages so I never pass up an opportunity to feature one of the houses that give this village its unique charm. Ironically, last week’s feature was a house transformed by architect Mark McInturff, FAIA, and today’s feature is the home of his sister, who is a good friend of mine. I am very pleased to showcase her innate interior design and gardening skills that makes this house a treasured home. 

As I did the first time I was a guest, I admired the three-bay massing of both the house and the wrap-around porch and the texture of the porch’s metal roofing. The side bay of the porch frames the location of the entry door with its full sidelights.  Since my last visit was in late summer, as I recently walked up the wide steps, I missed the pots of colorful flowers that adorn each edge of the steps during the warm months. 

Inviting wrap-around porch perfect for relaxation and entertaining.

The location of the front door maximizes the porch’s seating area and the half glass/half wood door with full sidelights and the full glass storm door provides daylight for the foyer. The side of the porch ends at an original door that my friend left intact. She added a closet to the room within but the closet could easily be removed to restore the room’s original use for easy indoor-outdoor flow. The light gray siding, white Doric columns, the long main floor 2/2 windows and the shorter units on the second floor with shutters creates a serene backdrop for the seasonal colors of the landscape and year round great curb appeal.

Rear elevation featuring the extended kitchen area with trellises.

The original “L” form of the house is enhanced both by the long shed dormer at the side and the one-story kitchen area overlooking the fenced yard. Instead of shutters, trellises at each side of the kitchen windows patiently await climbing flowering vines in the spring. 

Private brick terrace offers a serene outdoor dining and play area.

As a counterpoint to the semi-private front wrap-around porch, the brick terrace is fully private due to the rear yard’s perimeter fence of vertical slats of wood that have weathered to a lovely patina.  The layered plantings along the fence include pachysandra and white quince. The table and chairs offer a shady respite from the sun and create a cozy space for al-fresco dining or watching children at play. 

Blooming garden showcases azaleas and peonies in full spring glory.

As I write this article, my rear yard’s landscaping is slumbering under a thick blanket of snow so I wanted to include this picture to remind us that warmer days will come! The shed at the side wall is well used by my gardener friend and the low bed of white azalea and peonies below the Lady Banks Roses against the fence creates a lovely vista from the terrace. My friend chose that flowering plant for its characteristic evergreen leaves and white flowers and its ability to spread out quickly. It is also a harbinger of spring as it is among the earliest flowering of all roses.   

Fragrant peonies and azaleas burst into color in spring.

My friend also sent me this picture of her flowering plants and I can almost smell the fragrance of these peonies and azaleas that I also enjoy  in my own planting beds.

Well-designed entry alcove seamlessly leads into a stylish living room.

The front door opens into an entry alcove off the living room. The entry alcove was created by the extension of an HVAC closet next to the stairs and a short hall leads to a full bathroom. The wooden rack on the alcove’s side wall holds a  collection of hats that add a splash of color to the white walls. Like me, my friend is a bibliophile, so she added new built-in millwork to display artwork, books, collectibles and family photographs.

The living room’s loveseat with side arms was carefully chosen to fit between the two front windows. The neutral colors and placement of the furnishings make the space seem larger than it is and the accents of the patterned rug, the curvilinear  Oriental style tray that has a new life as a stylish coffee table top, and simple window treatments give this room a sophisticated look. I especially liked how the white window treatments blend into the wall and rise to the underside of the ceiling to expand the spatial volume.

Beautifully furnished living room with eye-catching spindle chairs and classic millwork.

I coveted the two distinctive spindle chairs with high backs and fretwork sides in front of the porch side windows of the living room. Walking through the beautifully decorated rooms, I was reminded of how well the scale of the furnishings complemented the size of each room and how my friend’s lifelong interest in antiques and her discriminating eye carefully curated each room’s interior design. I also appreciated how the floor plan had not been “modernized” to create the ubiquitous “open concept” floor plan. Instead, the rooms maintain their original dimensions with very little alteration. 

Open sightline from the living room to the kitchen highlights exposed brick chimney.

The texture and color of the exposed brick chimney becomes a sculptural element. The wall opening between the living and dining rooms was widened to create a telescoping vista through the adjacent rooms to the rear wall of the house.

Elegant dining room with wainscoting that highlights antique furnishings view into the bonus room.

The dining room is located at the center of the house and the rear window overlooks the rear garden. The white wainscot below a subtle wallpaper pattern, the beautiful antique furnishings of the table, Queen Anne chairs, Grandfather’s clock, antique chest and Oriental rug add warmth to the space.

Easily transformable bonus space with lots of light and easy-to-maintain flooring

The delightful “bonus” room connected to both the  wrap-around porch and the dining room has the original wood slat porch ceiling. The room’s  bead board wainscot, easy care tile flooring, triple side windows and a rear window overlooking the garden has great potential for myriad uses.  Since it has a closet, it could be a bedroom or office. If it were my house, I would remove the closet, replace the wood door to the porch with a French door and make this room a sunroom/TV room. 

Warm wood floors in the kitchen exude “lived-in love,” while the expanded ceiling and added window brighten the space

My fave room has always been the kitchen at the rear of the house. About two years ago, my friend’s “Mcinturff design DNA”  kicked in and she began her transformation of the kitchen. She first addressed the room’s volume by removing the ceiling, exposing the roof framing and adding a window above the double window unit overlooking the garden. The white color of the sloped ceiling reflects the sunlight and is accentuated by the contrast of the pale wall color. 

She next added two new floor to ceiling cabinets, changed the existing cabinet fronts from glass to solid wood to match the new ones, and added molding above the upper cabinets.  She replaced the Formica countertops with granite and replaced a dreary double sink with a much more workable single stainless sink and gooseneck  faucet.  Her finishing touches included the warmth of wood antique pieces including a distinctive armoire with upper glass fronts, another chest and a small piece between the doorway to the dining room. The adjacent pantry/laundry provides extra storage. 

Behind the kitchen was a bathroom that had deteriorated to the point that made demolition necessary. In its place is part of  the two-story addition with a first floor’s  spacious pantry/laundry and fridge next to the kitchen, and a bath with a shower off the entry hall.  

Scenic corner perfect for memorable dinners and conversations

I am very lucky to have been a guest for several memorable meals and stimulating conversation in this corner of the kitchen’s delightful interior architecture. It was easy to linger after dinner on one of the Queen Anne chairs around the beautiful antique table and being surrounded by windows overlooking the garden.  The exterior door leads to the brick terrace.

Serene primary bedroom with abundant light and cozy corners

The second floor contains two bedrooms and one full bath. The primary bedroom spans across the front of the house with three windows and one side window for ample sunlight. This serene bedroom with its light aqua walls, wood bedframe with low headboard and footboards, white quilted coverlet, striped bed skirt and patterned shams created a restful retreat.  Two small wooden tables with lamps serve as nightstands and behind the bed is a large walk-in closet. 

Charming wrap-around windows with ceiling-high treatments

Like the living room, the primary bedroom’s window treatments on the wrap-around windows rise to the underside of the ceiling and the exposed brick chimney adds a touch of texture.

Spacious bath featuring a relaxing Jacuzzi tub and classic wainscotting

Part of the two-story shed roofed addition is this spacious full bath with a Jacuzzi tub/shower. The white pedestal sink and toilet blend into the white wainscot and contrasts with the pale yellow wall above.

Inviting guest bedroom with thoughtfully curated decor and ample storage

The rear guest bedroom’s warm butter yellow walls are a backdrop for a vertical row of china plates and artful arrangements of art and memorabilia. A set of nesting tables serve as one nightstand and on the other side of the bed is an antique washstand.

“Little Giddings” is the sixth home my friend has renovated and illustrates so well  her innate design talent for both interiors and gardens. Her space planning and staging skills and her exquisite taste gives this house its distinctive personality. Classic historic Eastern Shore vernacular architecture, outdoor rooms of the front wrap-around porch and brick terrace overlooking beautiful plantings, great flow among the main floor rooms, “bonus” room that could become a main floor bedroom, updated kitchen and baths-all this in the charming village of Neavitt-Brava! For more information about this property, contact Joan Wetmore with TTR Sotheby’s International Realty at 410-673-3344 (o), 410-924-2432, or [email protected]. For more photographs and pricing, visit , https://www.sothebysrealty.com/eng/associate/180-a-df220928172710858981/joan-wetmore, “Equal Housing Opportunity.”

Photography by Janelle Stroop, Thru the Lens Photography, 410-310-6838, [email protected]

Contributor Jennifer Martella has pursued dual careers in architecture and real estate since she moved to the Eastern Shore in 2004. She has reestablished her architectural practice for residential and commercial projects and is a real estate agent for Meredith Fine Properties. She especially enjoys using her architectural expertise to help buyers envision how they could modify a potential property. Her Italian heritage led her to Piazza Italian Market, where she hosts wine tastings every Friday and Saturday afternoons.

Original front façade preserved in homage to early 20th century cottage design.

It is always a pleasure to feature designs by my fellow architects and I am very pleased to kick off the new year to feature another design by architect Mark McInturff, FAIA. When the Owner purchased this property eight years ago, the cottage was a wreck caused by a broken frozen pipe on the second floor that was not discovered for over a month. Luckily, the property was within the Critical Area so the house’s close proximity to Lee Creek could remain as long as the original foundation footprint was not increased. 

The Owner retained Mark to modify the cottage and they first decided to leave the front façade as-is, in homage to the cottage having been built in the early part of the 20th century, the heyday of small cottage designs. 

Original rear elevation with outdated glass infill and window placement.

The waterside original rear elevation had been somewhat updated previously with glass infill in the rear gable and longer windows.  McInturff’s transformation of the cottage from “plain vanilla” to “neapolitan” began with leaving the roofline intact, demolishing the one-story side room and organizing the placement of the windows and doors to create a cohesive composition. 

Newly transformed rear elevation with a screened porch and a second-floor deck.

Now the rear elevation proudly claims its place along the shoreline of Lee Creek with a flat roofed screened porch/second floor deck that encompasses the footprint of the original one-story room. The triangular shaped screened expansion was carefully detailed to seamlessly blend into the flat roofed portion of the screened porch. The second floor deck’s thin cable railing maximizes views of the landscape and water. 

The first floor’s gray vertical siding contrasts with the second floor’s white horizontal siding that makes the cottage seem longer than it is. The masterful arrangement of wide picture windows and slender operable units opens up the cottage to the water. The gable window is now single pane of glass for maximum views. I especially admired both the break in the gray façade by the insertion of a glass unit and also the finishing touch of emphasizing the operable window units and doors by their red color. Bravo! 

Detailing of gray façade break with fixed glass panel aligned with interior stairs.

The fixed glass panel’s break in the gray façade is on axis with the floating stairs inside the house. New wide steps lead from the cottage to the water for great indoor-outdoor flow.

Wall of floor-to-ceiling storage and herringbone brick floor in the foyer.

The view of the foyer to the front door shows how this small space makes a big impact with its wall of floor to ceiling storage units clad in wood, the recessed wall niche for one’s keys, etc., the long bench for totes or unloading packages from one’s car, and shelves below for crocs, gloves, etc. The herringbone brick is an easy care choice for flooring throughout the first floor. 

Stairs with open risers provide clear views to the landscape and water.

From the foyer, the stairs with open risers offer a vista through the rear wall of windows and doors to the landscape and water. I admired the colors and texture of the  herringbone patterned brick floor and gray exposed ceiling framing against the white of the walls. 

The diagonal vista from the foyer reveals transparency via wood inserts and corner windows.

I love diagonal vistas and this one from the foyer to the corner of the living area is very appealing. Its enclosure has transparency from both the vertical wood inserts in the stair wall and also the window units at the corner of the living room. 

Sleek galley kitchen with wood cabinets, black granite countertops, and high verticality.

Galley kitchens are my fave layout and this sleek and stylish kitchen gets high marks. The kitchen is part of the open plan kitchen-dining area with one side of the cabinetry’s countertop creating an overhang for stools below. The color scheme continues the foyer’s wood cabinets and black hardware with the addition of countertops in black granite with subtle white veining. I especially liked how both the tile backsplash that surrounds the window above the sink and also the cabinetry rise to the underside of the ceiling to maximize the room’s verticality.  

The screened porch is inspired by a boat’s bow and features a custom wood table and benches.

Doors from the kitchen slide along a track to the screened porch with its triangular shape of a boat’s bow that inspired the design of the custom wood table and benches by Mass Furniture Design.  Even though the wicker swing chair beckoned me, I continued my exploration of the cottage.

Corner windows of thin frames offer panoramic landscape and water views

The detailing of the rear wall of windows in thin frames that rise from the brick floor to the beam above gives the dining area’s corner windows panoramic views of the landscape and water. Round tables are so conducive to conversation and there is ample floor space for a table that could be expanded for holidays or other special occasions. 

Vista across the house from dining to living area – Open plan spaces bathed in sunlight with views through vertical slats.

Moving through the cottage, I was impressed by the amount of sunlight that penetrates deep into the house from the rear wall of windows and doors that wrap around the corners of the open plan spaces defined by dropped beams. The stairs’ detail of the vertical wood slats adds to the vista’s total transparency and evokes a detail from the Arts & Crafts era. 

Living area with cozy seating, hand-woven throws, and a window above the fireplace.

The living area accommodates all the basics-sofa, individual chairs with stylish handwoven textile throws, storage and a fireplace. I especially liked how the exposed chimney is set against the exterior wall of the house so a single window unit could be placed above the firebox to continue the wrap-around window design. 

The remainder of the first floor contains a full bath and a bedroom at the front corner of the cottage.

Second-floor landing framed by a wall of windows and defining private spaces.

The stairs end at a landing with one additional step to each of the two areas of the second floor containing the primary bedroom opposite the office and bathroom. I liked how the landing defined these private areas and how the wall of windows becomes a mural of the landscape and water. 

Original roof framing transformed by vertical supports and bright accents in the office.

The original roof framing of the cottage has been dramatically transformed by removing the lateral supports, cladding the underside of the roof rafters in drywall and creating partial walls at the top of the stairs to define each area. The vertical supports near the top of the stairs rise to the roof’s ridge beam for maximum spatial volume. The vertical wood slats at the tub area and the mint green wall of the “corner” office are very pleasing accents and the windows that wrap around each rear corner flood the spaces with sunlight throughout the day.

Primary bedroom side wall complimented by the mint green of the office.

The side wall of the primary bedroom echoes the mint green wall of the office wall. The copper Japanese soaking tub was an unexpected discovery in a nook next to the office area and behind the tub wall is the rest of the full bath.

Japanese copper soaking tub with serene views through large windows.

The nook’s Japanese copper soaking tub has views of the sky from the cottage’s rear wall of windows. After a day on the computer, it certainly offers one a unique option for relaxation!

Primary bedroom’s wall of windows and triangular transom offer landscape views.

From the primary bedroom, the wall of windows with the triangular transom provides views of the landscape and water. I admired the coverlet design of large leaves and fronds that creates a restful retreat.

Deep dormer nook in the primary bedroom painted gold for a cozy feel.

The original dormer window in the roof has a new life as a deep nook in the front wall of the primary bedroom. I admired the earth tones of the space and I especially liked how the walls and ceiling were painted a deep gold to emphasize its cozy size. The pillow with the lady’s shoe pillow is by the artist Arin Waddell.

I am addicted to the BBC Home and Garden network’s Wednesday marathon with architect Gerald Clarke whose specialty is renovation projects. Seeing this nook reminded me of another deep nook in one of his segments where his recommendation was to have an artisan woodworker replace the front base of the nook with a deep drawer that could be fully extended to create a single bed, with the cushion stored in the drawer until needed. This is an inspired idea for a young child’s bed or a great spot for stretching out and reading!  

Outdoor seating near the pier, perfect for enjoying sunsets.

By now, if you are wishing  you could be a guest in this remarkably renovated cottage, you can! “Chesapeake Sunset Cottage” is also an Airbnb with access to the property’s in-ground pool, pier, and this outdoor area with a grouping of chairs for guests to await the sunset.  

Outstanding transformation of a simple cottage into a sophisticated retreat with walls of doors and a mix of fixed and operable windows that penetrate deep into the rooms, interiors featuring custom woodwork and furniture, artwork and many treasures from the Owner’s travels. Delightful waterside outdoor rooms of the screened porch and upper deck to enjoy nature; all this and a location equidistant from both Ocean City’s beach and  Easton’s amenities. Bravo to the Owner and Architect Mark McInturff for a great kick-off to this year’s House of the Week!

Architecture by Mark McInturff, FAIA, McInturff Architects, 301-229-3705,  www.mcinturffarchitects.com. 
“Chesapeake Sunset Cottage” Airbnb, https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/33012586?guests=1&adults=1&s=67&unique_share_id=aaa672c4-80f2-4521-bc97-df781c5f0e54
Photography by Mark McInturff and Jenn Martella
Art of the Wall by Arin Waddell, arin-waddell.myshopifycom, 307-763-2501 
Woodworking by Fritz Mass, Maas Furniture Design, maasfunrinturedesign.com, 571-249-0861

Contributor Jennifer Martella has pursued dual careers in architecture and real estate since she moved to the Eastern Shore in 2004. She has reestablished her architectural practice for residential and commercial projects and is a real estate agent for Meredith Fine Properties. She especially enjoys using her architectural expertise to help buyers envision how they could modify a potential property. Her Italian heritage led her to Piazza Italian Market, where she hosts wine tastings every Friday and Saturday afternoons.

A historic district stand-out on this year’s Christmas in St. Michaels Tour of Homes.

I always enjoy being a volunteer for the Christmas in St. Michaels Tour of Homes.  Since this event is usually sold out, I am offering this Christmas card to my readers featuring my fave house in this year’s tour. Several years ago, I had seen this house with architectural clients when it was for sale, so I was eager to see the changes made by the current owners. 

As I walked up to this charming three-bay house in the Historic District, I admired again the massing with rear additions that telescope from the original two-story part of the house.  The current owners’ exterior color palette of light cream shake siding with deep slate blue shutters is very appealing. The wreaths at the side of the house and the gate to the fenced rear yard were harbingers of Christmas decorations that beckoned me within. 

Built in 1889 and “rehomed” in the 40’s, the Arthur K. Easter house received a thoughtful renovation/restoration thanks to it’s current owners. 

This house, known as the Arthur K. Easter house, was built in 1889 on part of the Old Mill property; the house was moved to its current location in the 1940’s. The original house’s three-bay front elevation’s symmetry of the windows grouped around the front door and the side additions that are set back further in respect to the original façade creates great curb appeal. 

The current owners purchased the property in 2021 and began an extensive renovation/restoration of the both the house and grounds. Every surface of the house has been updated for modern living, while retaining the original details of the well-worn wood staircase, beautiful wood floors and the windows. The couple are avid gardeners and first designed a master plan for the front and rear gardens which is now being implemented with crape myrtles, weeping peach, dogwood, roses and arbor vitae sleeping that will awaken in the spring. The tall hedge of holly provides privacy from the adjacent property. 

Planters with seasonal greens mark the beginning and end of the brick walkway to the house and lead up the front stoop with its solid railing of taupe and slate blue with decorative cut-outs. The front entrance is dressed for the season with festive garlands of Magnolia leaves, other greens, pine cones for texture, red and silver balls, gold snowflakes and ribbon. I especially liked how the garland peaked above the door header instead of outlining the door and I made a note to inquire about the door color which was simply lovely. 

Thoughtful landscaping enhances the rear elevation of home

The rear elevation shows how the gable and shed-roofed additions have enhanced the architectural character. The brick terrace with its curvilinear edge blends into the lawn and the retractable awning provides shade when needed. Pairs of French doors lead to the original sunroom that I soon discovered has a more intriguing current use. 

Backyard is perfect for relaxing

Next to the accessory structure is a peaceful spot for warm weather relaxing in the hammock on its stand and being enveloped by the tall enclosure of the hedge of mature cedars.

Upon entry, a large Oriental rug and mid-century modern stylings welcome visitors into the living area

The owners greeted me at the front door, and I immediately knew their interiors would be a special treat for me as mid-century modern is one of my favorite interior styles. I dearly coveted the pair of iconic Arne Jacobsen Egg Chairs in deep caramel leather opposite another chair upholstered in lamb’s wool.  The large Oriental rug flows under the transparent base of the Warren Platner coffee table design for Knoll. I love earth tones and the colors of the grass cloth wall covering, the silk drapes that rise to the underside of the ceiling and the Oriental rug over the beautiful pine floors create a serene space for welcoming guests. 

The charming portrait behind the baby grand piano identified the musician in the family and his parents will soon enjoy private concerts over the Christmas holiday. The large artwork behind the Jacobsen chairs was a clue of more Asian delights to come as I learned that before his retirement as a business executive with a worldwide portfolio, the husband brought home treasures from his travels.  

Vista to Christmas tree and front door

When I commented on the beautiful color of the front door, the Owners graciously told me it was a Farrow and Ball paint color. I also admired how well the shape of the Christmas tree was perfect for its spot by the grandfather clock and it did not completely cover the stair’s decorative railing.

Open flow from dining room to den 

Passing through the doorway in the living room, I discovered the open-plan dining and den opposite the kitchen. The Warren Platner table design with Mid-Century chairs anchors the dining area under the onion domed pendant light fixture. More Asian pieces, including the statuesque Garuda from Indonesia, are beautiful accents, and I especially liked how the wooden screen defines the two spaces without being a barrier. 

The rich palette in the den exudes cozy luxury.

The den’s dark-colored walls create a cozy space for relaxing around the fire, and the tusk becomes a sculptural element.  The Mies van der Rohe chaise chairs in caramel leather that face the fireplace and other seating create a cozy space for relaxing.  The gingerbread house, “Santa’s Winter Sleigh Ride” on the millwork was the first prize winner in this year’s Christmas in St. Michaels Gingerbread contest. 

Thoughtfully decorated bay window washes the Den in natural light

I admired the bay window seat’s seasonal tableau of crystal trees and hurricane lamps with candles on a bed of greenery. The potted greenery is strategically placed in front of the mullions so the view to the landscaping is unobstructed.

Eileen Gray table 

I was delighted to see the Eileen Gray table next to the chair opposite the bay window.  The reception area of my Knoxville architectural firm had two Corbusier chairs on either side of an Eileen Gray table. This clever table was originally designed for a clinic and the pin on a chain can be pulled out to adjust the table height from a side table to a bedside table.

“Behold the ‘Willapa Wife,’ a stunning adaptation of the traditional ‘Civil War Bride’ quilt, telling a family’s tale with handcrafted charm and a personal twist of needle-turned appliqué and free-motion quililing.

Before I explored the kitchen, I was mesmerized by the exquisite quilt wall hanging created by the wife that tells this family’s story in an adaptation of a very old traditional quilt called “Civil War Bride.” The wife cleverly modified seven of the original 20 blocks to represent their family of three, adding she and her husband in their wedding finery, their initials in script and a mother bird watching over one egg in a nest that represents the birth of their son. She named her version “Willapa Wife” after the name of the bay where the family lived in Washington state. The work is all needle-turned appliqué and she used a technique called free-motion quilting where she  guides the fabric under the needle of the sewing machine to create shapes and texture and to hold the whole quilt together.

From the minimal upper cabinets to an elegant tansu piece accented by gleaming copper pots against dark walls, the kitchen doesn’t disappoint. The island was repurposed from a flat file and quilting-inspired window valances have also been handmade.

I prefer storage units like Welsh dressers or pie safes to upper cabinets, and this kitchen has minimal upper cabinets, and the Asian “tansu” wooden piece next to the R/F provides storage with great style. I admired how the gleaming copper pots stand out against the dark walls and how the island is actually a flat-file enhanced by flat knobs in an Asian design. The prep area’s upper cabinets rise to the ceiling to fill the spatial volume and the two windows provide daylight. The design of the window valances were also the handwork of the wife who used the same free-motion quilting technique of her  “Willapa Wife” quilt wall hanging in this pattern called “double wedding ring”.   

The sunroom pulls double duty as a larger dining area as well as a workroom for the homeowner’s beautiful creations

The sunroom has a dual use as both a dining room for large dinner parties and also the workroom for the wife’s quilting projects.  I loved this quilt’s floral pattern with the colors overlaid onto the black background. The quilt’s pattern is called “Auntie Green’s Garden”,  by Irene Blanck, an Australian quilter. The technique used for all the shapes is called needle-turned appliqué. The rear French doors and side windows make the sunroom a delightful space for dining or work.

The  sunroom/workroom credenza has seasonal touches grouped around the antique Singer sewing machine. The plantation shutters offer a view of the adjacent dining area and provides a view of the landscaping beyond the sunroom/workroom from the dining room and den.

Vista from workroom through the house

Like the front door, the sunroom/workroom’s doorway, festooned with greenery, ribbons, dolls and beads, offers a  vista through the house. This space was the entrance for the Christmas in St. Michaels tour and the framed wall openings telescope through the house to the living room at the front of the house were wayfinders for the tour attendees.

The primary suite sitting area 

The second floor contains the primary suite, a guest bedroom and a full bath. The primary bedroom’s sitting area is furnished with classic Charles and Ray Eames Lounge chairs and a “mushroom” table next to the side wall of millwork built around the window.  The chairs are positioned across from the TV on a chest and the TV can swing in a circle so it can be seen from either the sitting area and or from the bed.

The Primary Suite is on the second floor, with a guest room and full bath. 

I admired the tranquil landscape artwork over the bed and its colors inspired the wallpaper with its sepia tones which was an inspired choice of wall covering. The partial wall between the sleeping and sitting areas is covered in cork, which adds great texture as does the lamp base by the bed and the sisal rug. The high knee walls, sloped ceiling and earth tones create a restful setting conducive to sweet dreams.

The upstairs bathroom serves both bedrooms. 

The bath serves both bedrooms and I admired the staggered pattern of the tile flooring that expands the space and how the vintage porcelain lavatory with chrome legs does not interrupt the flooring as a wood cabinet would. The plantation shutters can be adjusted for privacy as needed.

The secondary bedroom currently offers just the right amount of whimsy with a charming “headboard.”

In the eight years I have written these articles, this “headboard” in the son’s bedroom is the most creative I have seen. I believe every house should have a touch of whimsy and this artwork that was painted on wood made me smile. The red and green tulip patterned quilt is the perfect touch for the Christmas season.

I very reluctantly left my tour of this amazing house filled with treasures from the Far East, artisan quilts that are museum pieces, and other decorative items crafted by the wife and rooms of classic Mid-Century furniture that give this house its unique personality-Bravo and Brava to this couple who graciously shared their house on the Christmas in St. Michaels tour and who inspired this Christmas card from me to readers of my weekly column. As Tiny Tim wisely said, “God bless us every one”- Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Jenn Martella

Contributor Jennifer Martella has pursued dual careers in architecture and real estate since she moved to the Eastern Shore in 2004. She has reestablished her architectural practice for residential and commercial projects and is a real estate agent for Meredith Fine Properties. She especially enjoys using her architectural expertise to help buyers envision how they could modify a potential property. Her Italian heritage led her to Piazza Italian Market, where she hosts wine tastings every Friday and Saturday afternoons.

View from sidewalk

One of my interests is cartography and after my move to the Eastern Shore, I was intrigued when I learned from my primary reference book for St. Michaels that only a few of Maryland’s eighteenth century town plans were laid out by an individual land speculator as  St. Michaels’s plan was.  James Braddock was an agent employed by the firm Gildart and Gaywith of Liverpool, England, and he had been trading in Talbot County since 1714. Braddock began to act independently and over time accumulated property near Christ’s Church. In only four years, his holdings totaled two hundred acres and Braddock turned out to be an imaginative urban planner. Rejecting the 18th century’s conventional town planning grid system, Braddock instead arranged thirty six lots around a central square, which later became known as St. Mary’s Square. Its boundaries were Market Street (now Talbot St.), Mulberry, Chestnut and Water St. Today’s feature is located on one of these original streets. 

The house is sited slightly above the Town’s brick sidewalk that seamlessly blends into the brick driveway for off -street parking. The tall row of hollies behind low ivy provides privacy from the neighboring house. I admired the house’s massing with front and side gables and a wrap-around porch, surrounded by rows of  nandina with red berries behind a row of liriope that provides privacy from the street.

Quaint front elevation reveals an eclectic mix of design elements and several architectural styles

Before I walked up the front steps, I paused to admire the front elevation’s arrangement of the front door and surrounding windows. Instead of a typical three-bay house, the middle windows on both the first and second floors are outliers for both their asymmetrical horizontal and vertical alignments below the centered attic window. Coupled with the eclectic mix of design elements of several architectural styles and the classic white façade with contrasting shutters, this house has a unique charm. The very deep front porch is a delightful outdoor room with wicker chairs for relaxing with family and friends.

A well maintained fence gives the backyard a private feel, while the hardscape and rear porch enhance a tucked away vibe

The solid wood fence at the end of the drive is the boundary between public and private space. From the gate, the light colored gravel hardscape connects the screened porch with the accessory structure at the rear of the property. The seamless gable roofed addition includes a family room on the first floor and the primary bedroom on the second floor.

The fully finished secondary structure overlooks the main house and lawn

The accessory structure, fully finished, offers myriad uses-office, artist studio, teen hang-out, etc. From the Adirondack chairs, one can appreciate the verdant oasis of lawn and mature landscaping with privacy from both wood fencing and the trees. The view of the rear elevation in the background shows the gable of the original part of the house with the gable and shed roofed additions in the foreground.

Upon entry, the foyer is a cozy welcome with warm wood and a layout that maximizes space

The front door opens into a foyer with a direct vista through the house and the screened porch. The location of the stairs on the exterior wall maximizes the floor plan. The earth tones from the beautiful wood floors, stair newel post and balustrade and the period pendant fixture are reminders of another era. The side window brings sunlight into the hall and selecting the same color for the  wall and trim expands the space.  

Sitting room/study with gas fireplace offers easy access to wrap around porch. 

Seeing the front room off the foyer with the fireplace fitted for gas, I understood the placement of the windows that creates a natural spot for the sofa directly across from the fireplace and space for artwork above the sofa. If this room became a bedroom, the wall could accommodate a high headboard. Sunlight filters inside through the wooden blinds and the French door leads to the side of the wrap-around porch for great indoor-outdoor flow.  Built-in millwork holds books, memorabilia and family photos.

The stair hall leads home’s dining room complete with built-ins and large windows for natural light

At the end of the stair hall is the dining room, with two large windows for sunlight and built-in millwork for display of serving pieces. The round wood table and mix of wood chairs with cushions over rattan and upholstered chairs is conducive to lingering after dinner for conversation. The light wall color accented by the white chair rail and crown molding compliments the wood floors.

A wood-burning fireplace warms the cozy living room between dining and family room

The living room is connected to both the dining and family rooms. The wood-burning fireplace and wood surround is flanked with wide and long windows and the side wall has built-in backlit millwork. Like the dining room, wood cornices offer the option for the addition of drapery. The door leads to a full bath but the bath could be rearranged so the door could open into the front room to create a first floor ensuite if needed.  

Bright and fresh family room is perfect for enjoying together time at the end of the day

From the living room, a wide wall opening detailed with pilasters and layers of molding leads to the family room at the end of the house for a quiet space in which to relax at the end of the day for TV watching.

A wide window seat below the double-unit windows adds additional seating framed by millwork

With its two side windows and a double-unit window overlooking the rear landscaping, this sunny and spacious family room accommodates both family or guests. The focal point of the room is the wide window seat below the double-unit window flanked by the full height built-in millwork. The soft colors and the subtle rug pattern create a restful pace for binge watching TV.

Skylights brighten rich contrasting wood throughout the kitchen – porch can be easily accessed for easy outdoor dining

The kitchen’s sloped ceiling has skylights for added daylight and moonlight. The beautiful wood floors and the craftsmanship in the mix of wood species and color in the cabinets and the wood ceiling creates a unique look. The French door leads to the adjacent screened porch and windows that open into the porch for views of the landscape beyond.

Large screened-porch is perfect for entertaining

Screened porches and sunrooms are two of my fave types of rooms and this screened porch gets high marks for its sloped ceiling finished with white wood and skylights that create patterns across the brick floor throughout the day as the sun passes over. The porch’s large size has ample room for both dining and sitting areas and is a perfect space for entertaining or small dinner parties. 

Second-story sitting room divides the primary bedroom from two additional upstairs rooms

The stairs to the second floor pass the two front bedrooms and ends at this sitting room between the primary bedroom and the front bedrooms. The millwork full of books, the gas fireplace, a desk for checking emails or homework, a rattan chaise for settling in with a good book or reading a story to a wee one before bed creates a delightful space.  

Primary bedroom is well lit and cozy thanks to built-in millwork on either side of the bed and large window overlooking landscaping

From the sitting room, double door open into the sumptuous primary bedroom located at the rear corner of the house overlooking the landscaping. The light wall colors, beautiful wood pieces and light blue bed linens create a serene space for sleep. As a bibliophile, I appreciated the pair of sconces attached to the built-in millwork on either side of the bed that are the perfect height for reading. 

The up-stairs bathroom has a soaking tub that can be used by all while the primary bedroom has a private shower

The primary bath has a shower and the hall bath serving the other two bedrooms has a soaking tub. I admired the hall bath’s wood floors and the white wainscot instead of tile and how the sea scape artwork adds perspective to the wall.  

Larger of the two additional rooms sits at the front corner of the home

The larger of the two guest bedrooms is located at the front corner of the house and has windows on two walls for sunlight throughout the day. The soft colors accented by the paisley bedspread creates a restful retreat.

Secondary structure at rear of home is a perfect work-from-home office

My home office is an accessory structure on my property and I like separating work from home life. This stylish office would please anyone working from home with bright white walls and a seating area for breaks from computer work. Above the sofa are built-in shelves for storage.

The space offers plenty of room for a desk and cozy couch

I could easily imagine writing my Spy articles at this desk, surrounded by windows and the glass entry door. The stylish track light fixture offers both ambient and task lighting.  

This charming historic home in the earliest part of St. Michaels’ Historic District with its appealing traditional architecture, high ceilings, hardwood floors, and original architectural details that have been meticulously maintained offers timeless elegance of an earlier era with updates for today’s lifestyle. Easy flow between the main floor rooms and the spacious outdoor rooms of the front wrap-around porch and the rear screened porch overlooking the landscaped fenced yard expand your everyday living and entertaining space. The “bonus” room is the front main floor room that was probably the original parlor; minor reconfiguration of the full bath behind it could create a main floor ensuite. Other “bonus” spaces are the accessory structure that is finished as an office and the attic accessed by a stair for storage.

For more information about this property, contact Monica Penwell, Realtor with TTR Sotheby’s International Realty at 410-745-2596 (o), 410- 310-0225 (c), or [email protected] . For more pictures and pricing, visit monicapenwell.sothebysrealty.com “Equal Housing Opportunity”.

Photography by Eve Fishell, Chesapeake Pro Photo LLC, 443-786-8025, www.chesapeakeprophoto.com, [email protected]

Contributor Jennifer Martella has pursued dual careers in architecture and real estate since she moved to the Eastern Shore in 2004. She has reestablished her architectural practice for residential and commercial projects and is a real estate agent for Meredith Fine Properties. She especially enjoys using her architectural expertise to help buyers envision how they could modify a potential property. Her Italian heritage led her to Piazza Italian Market, where she hosts wine tastings every Friday and Saturday afternoons.