This week, I’d like to take you behind the scenes of an Alexandria project and share with you how we expertly merged west coast design with east coast living. This project was originally brought to us by architectural superstar Clare A. McCaffrey, AIA. She had been working with this military family of three who needed more space in their home, specifically a new primary suite, a larger family room, and outdoor space for entertaining. Originally from the west coast, they wanted the space to feel open, bright, and airy. Indoor/outdoor living that would work in an east coast climate was important to them. Together with Clare, we designed and constructed California living in Alexandria. Here’s how it came together. 

The Architectural Design

To create the open feel, as well as to give the space balance, Clare came up with the idea to add two separate additions to the back of the house and then connect them with the new indoor/outdoor space. This floorplan gives you a visual of the newly designed additions. 

The Living Room Addition

The living room addition features a cathedral ceiling and double door entry from the new mudroom into the space. Clare designed a corner window to give the room plenty of light without taking up too much wall space. To draw attention to the cathedral ceiling and add visual interest, our design team added a teardrop chandelier.

The Primary Suite Addition

On the opposite side of the house, a second addition was created to allow for the new primary suite. The suite includes a new primary bath featuring a double vanity from Braemar Cabinetry, a soaking tub, and a walk-in shower. New floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors were also incorporated into the design. This gives the homeowners private access to the backyard while bringing additional light into the new space. A pergola outside the primary suite is the cherry on top. 

The Indoor/Outdoor Living Solution

Creating two separate additions provided a natural open space in which we built a new indoor/outdoor area. To make the area feel part of the original home, we installed a 15-foot folding glass door that transitioned the existing family room into the new screened-in porch. In the screened-in porch, we installed an outdoor kitchen, TV area, recessed lighting, and a motorized retractable screen to provide light while keeping the insects out.