D’Ascanio Mellor Architecture
← All work

Gibson Island Residence

Location
Gibson Island, MD
Program
New Residence
Size
4,900 SF · 5 Bed / 4.5 Bath
Role
Project Manager & Designer
Front elevation of the Gibson Island residence — cedar-shake gables, a columned wraparound porch and a second-floor balcony among mature trees.

The Brief

This home was designed for a family in the DC metro area looking to summer on the private enclave of Gibson Island. The steeply sloped lot, while it presented its challenges, opened up views of the Chesapeake Bay from the upper levels.

The goal was to maximise the interior while keeping the house from reading as large from the road — a quiet street presence below, generous rooms and Bay views above. The owners also felt strongly about saving as many trees as possible during construction.

As project manager I met with the owners and developed the design from start to finish, and worked closely with the civil engineer on the site plan — laying out the septic and well systems while retaining as much of the existing vegetation as the site would allow.

The deep wraparound porch in cedar shake, with ceiling fans, wicker seating and a painted bead-board ceiling.
The garage entry wing, with shingle siding, white trim and stone detailing.
The open living room with hardwood floors, a wall of French doors and arched transoms framing the lawn beyond.
The rear elevation stepping down the slope, with stacked porches opening toward the Bay view.