EDGEWATER
design + build + develop
This home along the South River, a tributary to the Chesapeake Bay, sat abandoned for 40 years. This rare water-view lot went through years of failed development attempts - all attempting to tear down the existing Craftsman Cottage. Strict environmental laws prohibited development near steep hillsides and furthermore - within proximity of septic tanks and unconfined wells. If torn down, nothing could be built in its place. So we asked the question - can it be saved?
According to state law if we stayed classified as a "remodel" we could work within the existing footprint of the abandoned home without having to come into compliance with current environmental laws. With no foundations and termite ridden framing, we conceived of a plan to jack the existing house, add a finished basement and redesign the interior floor plans to maximize access to natural daylight, cross-ventilation and views towards the river. Most importantly, to the delight of the neighborhood, we found a viable plan to preserve history and maintain the character and charm of the existing cottage for decades to come.