11218 River View Drive, Potomac, MD, 20854

Paying homage to its namesake estate, modeled after the Château de Malmaison and a sprawling summer getaway for the Gore and Kennedy families, Marwood is a whimsical enclave of custom luxury homes dotted amongst wooded surroundings along the banks of the roaring Potomac River. Beyond the original gate house, its winding streets meander amidst towering trees, revealing only 26 lavish residences on sprawling lots. Within this historically significant and highly rarefied air, sited on a knoll, is 11218 River View Drive. Originally constructed by legendary local builder Ted Visnic in the French Provincial style for a renowned Hollywood producer, the artistry is evident throughout in the home’s thoughtful design and architectural prowess. A sweeping hairpin driveway creates a dramatically gracious approach, revealing a central motor court framed by stone hardscaping, as well as the stunning symmetrical facade clad in stone and stucco with intricate detailing. A paver walkway introduces a flagstone front courtyard, upon which the elegant arched front double doors are nestled beneath a vestibule. They part ways to reveal tastefully exquisitely crafted interiors, highlighted by embassy sized public rooms, 14’ ceilings, custom wrought iron railings, and hand-designed crown moldings. The sprawling main level is bifurcated by a transverse gallery, its barreled ceiling with hanging pendants and travertine flooring bridging formal and informal spaces. Central to the floor plan is the great room, an expansive double-height space framed by an upper level overlook. Two grand chandeliers hang from the coffered ceiling, with the space anchored by an elaborate hand-carved fireplace on one end and a custom milled entertainment station on the other. Quintuple sets of double glass doors open onto the unique rear loggia, generously proportioned and blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living via triple motorized doors which fully integrate the space with the rear terrace. Dignified areas on the main level include a large billiards room with spiral staircase to the upper level, a warm paneled library, and a capacious dining room featuring soaring ceilings and accent lighting, harkening back to the great French country estates of a bygone era. Informal areas are anchored by the chef’s kitchen, showcasing dual done countertops and cabinets concealing a top-of-the-line appliance suite including SubZero refrigeration. An arched, full height marble backsplash wall behind the custom hood is the focal point, while the breakfast nook with its leaded glass windows is discreetly tucked away. Two luxurious bedroom suites complete the main level. Ascending the sweeping wrought iron staircase reveals just three bedrooms and a convenient laundry room on the upper level, including the lavish primary suite. Its sleeping area features a roaring fireplace flanked by doors accessing the private terrace, while multiple walk-in closets branch off the barrel-ceilinged dressing gallery. Flooded with natural light from a semicircular wall of windows, the primary bath is sumptuously equipped with a dual vanity, jetted soaking tub, separate water closet, and walk-in steam shower. Above the loggia is a full width stone terrace, accessed from the upper level, overlooking the rear grounds, and nestled amidst the trees for a truly whimsical experience. The lower level comprises multiple bonus and recreation areas with options for a fitness center, home cinema, wellness area, and additional entertaining space. Resort-like rear grounds revolve around the stunning 60-foot heated pool with motorized cover, and its accompanying pool house recessed into the hillside with a crescent-shaped viewing terrace above. Generous patio space facilitates large scale entertaining and dining al fresco. Merely a mile west of Potomac Village along River Road, yet totally secluded in feel, the location is unparalleled.