The owners of this historic Mellor, Meigs & How residence in the Mount Airy neighborhood of Philadelphia, had over time, acquired neighboring parcels and sought to extend their existing property into an ideal retreat. Working with the owner, VMA and a team of consultants worked together to create a design response that would create harmony between the structures, outdoor recreational use, and the natural landscape.

To begin with, a series of sweeping terraces and ease in grading resulted in a generous pool seemingly dropping off into the distance beyond. Paved in white Mexican stone, these terraces refrain from generating excess heat during peak summer usage. As an outdoor room for living, the terrace adjacent to the kitchen provides convenient seating, while, below, another accommodates a simple but refined whirlpool, all shaded with wooden trellises. The significant site landscaping and hardscaping was completed in collaboration with Gilmore & Associates. Additionally, a nearby barn structure was converted into a horse stable with a retreat above. The property is adjacent to the Fairmont Park riding trails, so the owners could simply open a gate to gain access to the extensive local trail network. 

In conjunction, the interior first floor was reoriented with the conversion of a garage into a sizable kitchen, fronting this newly-acquired land which steeply drops in elevation. Eve Ashcraft collaborated as interior designer. Creative details soften the interior: a wrought iron stair rail; antique furnishings and a rich palette of bold colors; and, soft patterns and dark mahogany finishes, which unite for a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Interior Design completed in association with Executive Interiors. Pool area landscaping and hardscaping by VMA. Site landscaping and hardscaping by Gilmore & Associates.