living — Chevy Chase, MD

Wirelawn

“The best design is a conversation across generations.” - Unknown

Rooted in history and designed for longevity, Wirelawn embodies a dialogue between past and present, landscape and architecture. The landscape honors the property’s heritage through details and materials that complement the home’s 1910 renovation by architect Clark Waggaman, using forms that feel both familiar and timeless. Thoughtful interventions create a cohesive and enduring environment that connects memory with modern living..

Photos by Kate Wichlinski unless noted otherwise.

A stone-paved walk between clipped hedges and planters, leading to a garden wall

Site plan for the Guardians of the First Amendment Memorial showing the memorial plaza and rain garden.

Plan of the memorial with the curved brick wall and five column positions marked.

Site plan for the Guardians of the First Amendment Memorial, showing the memorial, rain garden and tree planting on Compromise Street.

Historical Significance

Designed in 1905 for Dr. and Mrs. John Ryan Devereux, Wirelawn began as a modest stucco and frame residence. In 1910, architect Clark Waggaman reimagined the home, adding two elegant wings, a brick façade, and a thoughtfully designed garden that defined much of its present character. In 1946, the estate was acquired by Mr. and Mrs. C. Raymond Wire, who renamed it Wirelawn. During their tenure, the residence became a lively gathering place and a notable setting for Washington’s social life. Throughout its storied history, Wirelawn has welcomed presidents, senators, and ambassadors, and continues to stand as a distinguished landmark in Chevy Chase, Maryland.

Photos Source: Chevy Chase Historical Society.

The side elevation of a brick Georgian house above a brick motor court and foundation planting

The entry drive between brick piers and a white picket fence, the house beyond

Existing Conditions

Prior to renovation, the existing landscape reflected an eclectic layering of styles, mismatched hardscape, and overgrown plants. Our response established a stronger dialogue between house and garden, allowing the home’s architecture to extend into the landscape.

Treetops against a clear blue sky above the garden

A hand section sketch of a low stone garden wall with planting above and below

A second hand section sketch showing the stone wall with a revised planting arrangement

Wall Sketches

Hand-drawn studies exploring material, planting, and spatial relationships through plan and elevation. The sketches capture an early exploration of form, texture, and composition.

White panicle hydrangeas flowering beside a window of the brick house

A limestone garden wall with clipped boxwood, panicle hydrangeas and a stone-and-turf paved walk

Layered Garden

Limestone detailing and a hydrangea hedge were used to echo the home’s architectural character, while a limestone wall and hornbeam hedge along the street was designed to provide privacy and acoustic separation. Reclaimed brick was used to match the facade for entry piers at the driveway and entry terrace.