A Rare Midcentury Modern Home Lists For Under $1.5M in Virginia
Utterly unique to the traditional architecture of Virginia, this home is truly a modern treasure. The three-bed, three-bath, nearly 3,000-square-foot home features light-filled interiors and open spaces that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living. Building upon the legendary midcentury modern homes that came before it, the home's open plan is organized in a 7' x 7' structural grid.
The open, split-level plan allows for continuous flow from space to space, and uninterrupted views from the inside out. The original radiant heating system remains, and cool gray cork floors provide comfort and warmth.
Large windows with automatic shades incorporate smart home technology, balancing daylight with comfort.
Built in 1952, the home has been generously loved by just two owners in its lifetime. Curry Uflacker and her husband Andre purchased the home from the original owner, taking a journey back in time upon acquisition. With the help of HausCraft, a design build team led by architect Joe Wheeler, the Uflackers completely gutted the home and respectfully renovated it while staying true to its original character.
The open floor plan blends cooking, dining, and living spaces. The brick fireplace remains the heart of the home. Contemporary artworks by the homeowner's father, Richard Hagerty, an American surrealist, decorate the home's living spaces.
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Wheeler truly understood the origin of the home and educated the homeowners on the provenance of the design. It was a passion project for both the architect and the homeowners, who together strove to renovate the modern home cost effectively, yet with quality products that would stand the test of time.
Sleek, white custom cabinets quietly tie in with the original character of the home.
The uniquely designed kitchen island extends above the dining table to provide additional space for dining and cook prep. When not in use, the dining table can be pulled away, providing a freestanding island.
The new, high-end kitchen is a minimalist dream, complete with clean lines, flat-panel doors, and a glass backsplash.
The updated bathrooms are clean and bright. A large mirror sits atop the custom floating vanity. Clerestory windows allow daylight to enter even the private spaces.
Custom glass etching in the master bathroom mirrors the frosted glass details found at Durell's Stone Townhouse in New York City.
Original drawings of the home provided inspiration during the renovation. Conceptualized as a smart home at the outset in 1952, the project features passive heating, cooling, and daylighting strategies that continue to provide comfort today.
Large overhangs block the harsh summer sun while allowing the low winter sun to infiltrate the living spaces.
On the other side of the living room lies a warm and cozy bedroom, complete with a fireplace of its own. A wall of built-ins provides plentiful storage.
A charming nursery looks onto the inviting courtyard. Custom "midcentury vascular anatomy" artwork by owner Andre Uflacker, a radiologist and painter, adorns the space.
Many of Durell’s designs remain intact—including the original stereo and speakers. Simple, clean insertions bring the home up to modern day standards while allowing its true bones to shine.
The original stereo and radio remain intact. Although these components are nonfunctional, they are truly unique elements of this Durell home.
In the master bedroom, Durell's custom-designed bed and dresser remain.
The plywood-wrapped library is a warm addition added in the ’70s.
As daylight falls upon the large spans of glazing, the structure shines and the boundary fades between the building and the landscape. Durell would be proud of the architectural legacy that remains at the Stone Throw house.
The interior courtyard is one of the best rooms in the house, embracing daylight and shadows. Originally designed to hold a tree at the center, the courtyard now includes a fire pit.
2020 Spottswood Rd is currently listed by Bob Headrick through Nest Realty. To learn more about the couple's renovation process, follow their journey on Instagram.
Project Credits:
Architect of Record: Edward Durell Stone
Renovation Architect: Joe Wheeler of HausCraft
Builder / General Contractor: Uhler and Company
Cabinetry Design / Installation: Plain & Fancy Cabinets
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