The dictionary defines “haven” as a “port”, a safe place”and a place offering favorable conditions. “Lynnhaven” is aptly named for its private, gated location minutes from the much sought after Oxford corridor, SW exposure, 6 ft. MLW off the Tred Avon river and to this aspiring oenophile, its wine cellar!
I was immediately captivated by the entrance hall, with its polished granite floor, curved stair and rounded landing above. Works of art were hung on the wall at eye level above several stair steps. Clearly this would be the harbinger of a beautifully appointed house. I loved the serene neutral palette of the interior design accented by rugs, pillows, accessories and decorative porcelain in the living room, library, dining room and sunroom. Beautiful hardwood floors and four fireplaces added extra warmth. The sunroom windows were on a direct axis to the pergola at the end of the pool to frame the vista.
The front and rear elevations were very different. The front was a classic traditional central gable wing with an ocular accent window and two-story columns flanked on each side by secondary wings. In contrast, the rear elevation opened to the water with walls of windows, gables, second floor decks and dormers to maximize the water views. The solar roofing panels were unobtrusive since the roofing shingles below were a dark color.
The pristine kitchen with its warm wood cabinetry was connected to an elegant informal dining area with an antique hutch and cabinet to accompany the round table and Regency chairs. I loved the family room with its stone floor, painted wood-slat ceiling, millwork filled with books flanking a fireplace, comfortable furnishings and a large-screen TV. The perfect spot for relaxation after a dip in the nearby pool.
Since the house had an elevator, the master suite could remain on the second floor for more expansive water views from its private deck. I also liked one of the guest rooms that had another private deck. The graceful arc of the iron headboard and the warm wood chests and dresser would make any guest linger; however, the guest room tucked under a “canopy” of exposed collar beams painted white to blend with ceiling would be my choice of accommodation. Dormer windows with bookcases built into the eaves created charming interior architecture.
For more information about this property, please contact Cornelia Heckenbach at 410-745-0283 (o), 410-310-1229 (c), or info@ corneliaheckenbach.com, “Equal Opportunity Employer”.
Spy House of the Week is an ongoing series that selects a different home each week. The Spy’s Habitat editor Jennifer Martella makes these selections based exclusively on her experience as a architect.
Jennifer Martella has pursued her dual careers in architecture and real estate since she moved to the Eastern Shore in 2004. Her award winning work has ranged from revitalization projects to a collaboration with the Maya Lin Studio for the Children’s Defense Fund’s corporate retreat in her home state of Tennessee.
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