ROCK SPRING

When this North Arlington couple first contacted Gruver Cooley, they wanted to build a new pool and pool house, convert a garage into a transition space and construct a new garage which would contain a second floor office. While the property was quite large by Arlington standards, the location of the added structures posed some lot setback and access challenges. Accessibility to the rear of the property needed to be carefully maintained to create the new outdoor living area featuring the pool and pool house plus an extensive patio area. With the help of Gruver Cooley and architect Ed Powlowski, A.I.A., of Virginia Beach, this couple was able to achieve all of their construction goals.

     The pool features a hot tub and Badu jets, which create a constant current for swimming. The pool house fully opens to the terraces using a Nano glass wall system and features a vaulted ceiling with tongue and groove cedar paneling and a stone fireplace. All of the terraces are covered with Tennessee flagstone, which provides a cooler surface that blends well with the existing house stone and siding. Overall, these changes provide a wonderful space for outdoor family fun and relaxation.

     This couple also wanted a garage to house four vehicles. Because of lot restrictions, this need was met by constructing a garage with a two car lift that lowers cars to a basement level for storage. A back staircase from the garage allows entry to a large space above the new garage. With dormers and a vaulted beamed ceiling, it is a perfect home office. Once the new garage and office were completed, the original garage was converted to a mudroom, laundry and storage area and was connected to the new garage by a breezeway.

     After just a couple of weeks of enjoying the completion of the renovation, this couple would once again call upon Gruver Cooley when a lightning strike caused a fire in their attic. While the fire was quickly extinguished, smoke and water caused extensive damage to the house, requiring a complete renovation of the existing home. This unfortunate event, however, allowed the owners to make improvements in other areas of the house. A beautiful mahogany library with crotch mahogany inlay was crafted by one of Gruver Cooley's millworkers, and a second library with inlay tile floors was renovated off of the living room.   The kitchen renovation included an extended family dining area, where we added a tongue and groove vaulted ceiling. The plaster walls and traditional trim details were carefully repaired, and each bath was restored to its original state.

WHERE

Arlington, VA