GOLD AWARD
The Alexander Group, Inc., Kensington, Md.
Project location: Potomac, Md.

The client for this project by The Alexander Group, Inc., Kensington, Md., simply wanted to “redo the basement.” The large brick colonial home built in the 1980s had an existing finished basement divided into multiple rooms, including a “spa” bath. The floor plan was choppy and finishes were worn and outdated. There was a foundation leak in one corner of the basement which had caused a fair amount of water damage which needed to be figured out and repaired.

The client wanted to create an area for television viewing that was open yet intimate, and would be good to entertain friends and family. Also on the list was space for a pool table, a built-in bar with an eating area and a guest bath convenient to the pool. In addition, creating storage areas, a home office/den and master bath with a dressing area were also high on the list. The client also wanted to bring the house into the 21st century with regard to plumbing, electrical and mechanical systems.

The main problem in the basement that would have to be dealt with first was the water problem. It was investigated and four main contributing issues were found: a broken foundation drain backing up water into the corner, an undersized downspout into a clogged drain pipe, no flashing behind a deck ledger and erosion at the house corner. The repairs were made and then tested prior to beginning the lower level renovations.

There were several steel support posts that were relocated to accommodate for the new design. The proposed guest bath location required extensive plumbing ground work to tie into the main drain, and the existing HVAC system did not provide even heating or cooling.

The new basement contains custom built niches and display cabinetry, providing a gallery of glass art as one enters the lower level. The new floor plan achieves all of the client’s goals: an open, yet intimate space for home theatre entertainment with a fireplace, a billiards area, bar and eating area, guest bath with changing space convenient to the pool, den with dressing area and bath, and plenty of storage. To solve the HVAC problem, two new high-efficiency HVAC systems with new ductwork now provide zone heating and cooling for the first floor and lower level.

Silver:
Sun Design Remodeling Specialists, Inc., Burke, Va.

Bronze:
Crowdus Custom Homes
St. Louis, Mo.

Honorable mention:
Degnan Design Builders, Inc. DeForest, Wis.