The Roothouse
The soul of what is modern has its roots and traditions from classical antiquity. With that in mind, Carter + Burton Architecture was commissioned by listModern Founder, Ron Mangas, JR, to design an aptly named concept, The Roothouse. The property is along one of the few remaining maintained gravel roads throughout The Plains and Middleburg, following a storied mountain range, and primarily surrounded by one thousand acres of conservation land. Careful not to displace the natural beauty of its tranquil wooded site, all materials selected for The Roothouse complement its organic ethos.
“We have experimented with many new sustainable systems over the years,” says architect Jim Burton. “Working for Ron on The Roothouse design has been a joy as he has been a leader in promoting modern design in the DC region and he has been open to many new ideas for consideration in developing his project." At an international architecture exhibition, the Venice Biennale, The Roothouse even provided key images for the architect's exhibit wall. "It is a study in CLT (cross-laminated timbers) while creating a simple elegance of rhythm and light patterns highlighting the natural materials. With this exhibit,” he explains, “we are trying to bridge between education and practice to help share new and old knowledge about materials, building science, site conditions, and functional aspects while assuring there is a craft and beauty that will be appreciated.”
Materials will include natural wood interior walls, floor, and ceiling; Indirect architectural lighting for enhanced natural ambiance; Honest stone and concrete for durability; and full-height windows and doors. Dictated by the site, the house rises on piers above hundreds of surface boulders along a verdant slope. The floor is placed for a level entry with an elevated exposure at the opposite end. Preserving as many trees as possible provides a screen of bright green foliage contrasted by almost black tree trunks. Glass reflects the site's image, while the vertical charred siding mimics the trees. The home will be hidden in plain sight. The unforeseen gift is that it might be the furthest East to find such a site, with the ultimate privacy and convenience.
The Land and Plans are offered, including renderings, material selections, and initial engineering. A county permit is included for septic up to 5 bedrooms. Sitework cleared driveway and footpaths, identified house site and septic layout. A Powerline easement along the road provides easy hookup access to power. The builder is lined up and ready to begin, or the buyer may bid on the builders of choice. The architect is prepared to review changes and complete the project as you wish. This is a total concept and land package. Renderings provided by PARADIGMoffice
