Gallery House - A New Version of Coastal Living

Excited to share our recent completed Gallery House, a project that truly showcases our team's dedication and creativity. Working closely with our clients and collaborators throughout the design and construction phases has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Together we embraced the unique challenges of building within the Chesapeake Bay Protection Area and a flood zone, transforming these constraints into creative design features for resilient costal living.

Located in a flood zone like many homes in coastal Virginia, the finished floor of Gallery House is elevated half a story above ground level to comply with zoning codes, ensuring safety and resilience against potential flooding. This elevation not only ensures safety but also provides enhanced views of the surrounding landscape. Together with our incredible landscape architect, we transformed elevation into elegance, creating a seamless flow from the main level to the ground with terraces, steps, and planters.

Located in the Chesapeake Bay Protection Area, the waterfront Gallery House harmonizes design with environmental stewardship. Both the building and outdoor terrace are strategically placed outside the CBPA buffer to minimize environmental impact. We preserved 100% of the existing mature trees within the CBPA buffer, maintaining a natural setting for the new structure.

Our commitment to resilience extends beyond flood protection and CBPA compliance. The home features a geo-thermal system, electric vehicle charging, an airtight exterior envelope, and strategically placed windows for natural ventilation, ensuring both sustainability and comfort.

Inside, the floor plan is crafted to offer stunning water views from all common areas and bedrooms, making every moment a picturesque experience. Large patio doors and a covered porch seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor spaces, enabling our clients to fully appreciate the mild weather of Southern Virginia and the picturesque views of the lot.

The two-story main building centers around an inviting great room, seamlessly blending living, dining, and kitchen areas on the first floor. While our clients loved the open concept, they wanted clear space definition, especially for the dining area. To achieve this, we designed a central box for dining with a see-through fireplace on one side and built-in cabinets on the other. This thoughtful layout creates a convenient circulation loop, not only improving the flow of everyday life for our clients but also shining during party hosting. Throughout the home, our clients' own artwork mingles with carefully curated pieces from other artists, truly making it a Gallery House.

Connected to the main building by a breezeway, a one-story art studio sits on the south side. This is where our client creates her artworks. The space features a high vaulted ceiling and windows on three sides, providing ample natural light. The studio includes a work area for the artist that overlooks the water, as well as a lounge space at the front to receive visitors. Its entrance aligns with the main house's side entry across the breezeway, creating a natural flow between spaces. The north-facing windows provide consistent, glare-free light, ideal for our client's artistic work.

The master bedroom in Gallery House's north wing features a high tray ceiling and opens to a private terrace with water views, perfect for enjoying morning coffee. Large sliding doors and windows flood the room with natural light, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living to create a tranquil and inviting atmosphere. The lush greenery outside provides a stunning backdrop, making this master bedroom a true retreat.

Arched doorways add a touch of visual interest, but our favorite moment? The entryway to the master suite, featuring a cherished family picture wall—a meaningful element our clients wanted to bring from their previous home.

This home showcases several distinctive design features. A soft pink butler's pantry adds an unexpected touch to both daily life and entertainment while providing ample additional storage. A floating staircase creates visual intrigue and maximizes space and light flow. The breakfast nook, adorned with colorful family artwork, provides a cozy corner. Meanwhile, the table in the open corner maintains a visual connection with the Art Studio, allowing every family member to have their own moments while remaining aware of the presence of others.

If you are interested in building your own dream home, please contact us at [email protected].

PROJECT INFORMATION:

Project Location: Norfolk, VA

Architecture Design: GARC LLC

Landscape Design: Ann P. Stokes Landscape Architects, LLC

Structure Design: Roland McPherson

Interior Design: Leslie Drinkwalter Interiors

General Contractor: Convington Contracting

Lighting Design: First Light

Photography: YUZHU ZHENG

Landscape Planting Design & Build: Back East Landscaping

Stair: Viewrail

Windows and Patio Doors: Marvin Windows and Doors

Cabinetry: Heritage Woodworks