Richardson & Associates’ imaginative master plan creates a new prospect for this river-front property. Previously, the Collingwood Library & Museum of Americanism inhabited a large structure on the site, which included a commercial parking lot for visitors and ancillary buildings. When the museum closed in 2015, the current owner envisioned a new family compound in its place. An avid water sportsman, the wide swath of the Potomac waterfront and existing, grandfathered, 300-foot-long dock were ideal features.

The new home was designed by Rill Architects, and to reinforce a luxurious but casual lifestyle with a focus on outdoor activities, Richardson & Associates’ multi-phased plan provides two entry sequences, a broad allée of trees, and a cobbled parking court. To the rear, the space is defined by a Lautner edge pool and Indiana limestone terrace; a detached pool house with underground storage built into the steep grade; and a deep fairway-like clearing with dense woods on both sides. The river and dock can be seen in the distance. The owner loves this parcel of land and the ability to raise his children with an appreciation for the great outdoors.