Image Credit: Jim Tetro

Fifties Split

Bethesda, Maryland.  Gardner Architects LLC.

This 1950s split-level home on a compact lot required a expansion to accommodate the owners' evolving lifestyle, demanding both improved interior organization and a stronger connection to the landscape. The client's brief was twofold: update the structure into a modern sanctuary while preserving elements of its original mid-century character. Describing themselves as "accidentally sustainable," they sought to pair these open, flexible design goals with responsible, environmentally sound choices.

Reclaiming the Split-Level Flow Traditional split-level homes are notoriously segmented. In Fifties Spliet, we reimagined that geometry by removing interior walls and establishing the kitchen as the central anchor. The kitchen now onnects the high-ceilinged living and dining spaces to the entry hall and garden loggia situated just a half-flight below.

Indoor-Outdoor Connection

  • The Living Pavilion: Features an integrated south-facing light shelf, skylights, and expansive terrace doors that maximize passive winter solar gain while facilitating natural cross-ventilation.

  • The Floating Deck: An L-shaped addition cradles a new cypress deck and stone rock garden, creating a graceful, tiered transition from the interior out to the lawn.

  • The Treehouse Addition: A vertical second-story addition is perched into the canopy, framing elevated views of the backyard.

Environmental Stewardship Embracing the client's desire for an environmentally sound home, the technical execution balances performance with healthy home principles:

  • Smart Envelope: High-efficiency insulation values paired with advanced air-sealing.

  • Thermal Comfort: Zone-controlled radiant floor heating combined with natural passive daylighting.

  • Healthy Materials: Low-VOC and formaldehyde-free materials to deliver elevated indoor air quality.

Awards + Recognition:

Project Team:

  • Gardner Architects LLC - Architect

  • Robert Silman Associates - Structural Engineer

  • Ralph Smith - General Contractor

  • Jennifer Gilmer Kitchen & Bath - Kitchen Design