When wealthy Gilded Age Americans wanted the perfect summer residence, be it in Newport or Long Island, they called upon eminent architect Stanford White to create a house very much like this. Known as the Shingle Style, it first appeared in the 19th century when romantic styles such as Queen Anne were beginning to gain popularity throughout the United States. Large, asymmetrical compositions offered generous porches, comfortable rooms, and windows that allowed one to take advantage of views whether it was that of ocean, or Main Street. This style had an impressive resurgence during the last thirty years, primarily because it offers the scale and space that suits contemporary living. One of the most notable proponents of this style was architect Robert A. M. Stern, whose work in this idiom is still popular as a summer home. This residence is located in Cleveland Park and is within walking distance to shops and restaurants of Cathedral Commons, parks, and numerous highly-regarded independent schools. Constructed by esteemed local developer Jim Gibson, this house is wrapped in cedar shingles and features front and rear porches. The residence offers a generously scaled floor plan with large rooms for entertaining and comfortable family living spaces. It is filled with an abundance of natural light through large windows and features high-quality custom trim and moldings. A two-story foyer is adjacent to a large light-filled living room with oversized windows, built-ins, and fireplace. From there, a sophisticated dining room adjoins the open gourmet kitchen via a butler~s pantry. The kitchen features high-end appliances and opens to the charming breakfast room with a two-story wall of windows. The family room with its stone fireplace is located at the back, encompassing the entire width of the house. French doors provide convenient access to the rear porch, garden, and two-car garage. The second level landing is supplied with a wall of bookshelves, illuminated by natural light from an attractive row of windows. This floor offers four bedrooms and three bathrooms, including a generous master suite. In the well-appointed master, there is a fireplace, private balcony, two walk-in closets, bathroom with dual vanities, and a separate shower and tub. The uppermost level of the residence offers an additional master bedroom with an en-suite bathroom and walk-in closet. There is an abundance of additional storage on this level as well. The expansive lower level, with its side access to the garden, has high ceilings and a large open recreation room with a fireplace, built-ins, and a designated gym area. Even the utility spaces such as the laundry room have been beautifully designed. There is an additional bedroom and bathroom, perfect for guest or au pair.~ The rear yard is fenced, private and offers mature landscaping.
