6309 Walhonding Rd, Bethesda, MD 20816

Perched among the trees in the sought-after enclave of Glen Echo Heights, this striking contemporary residence is defined by its elevated steel-and-glass design and seamless connection to the outdoors. Aptly named Songbird by seasoned local builder and developer Scott Churilla of Churilla Homes, the Robert Black-designed home pairs modern architecture with an environmentally conscious site plan that responds naturally to the neighborhood’s varied architectural character. Originally conceived as the developer’s personal residence, the property presents a rare opportunity to acquire a truly custom, California-inspired home without the years of planning and design typically associated with a project of this scale and refinement. The dramatic approach is shaped by the contrast between the home’s clean, minimalist lines and its recessed placement within the hillside. Carefully engineered around the site’s natural topography, the residence offers exceptional privacy from neighboring properties while capturing expansive treetop views toward the Potomac River valley. An oversized pivot door introduces a dramatic foyer with fifteen-foot ceilings and warm white oak finishes. A monostringer slab staircase with sculptural architectural steel detailing anchors the space, while a glass-enclosed wine display and carefully curated material palette establish the home’s refined modern aesthetic from the moment of entry. An elevator serving all three levels provides convenient access from both the foyer and the expansive three-car garage. Ascending to the main level, the voluminous open-plan design is distinguished by an abundance of natural light and a continuous visual connection to the outdoors. Expansive floor-to-ceiling operable glass panels connect the great room to the integrated pool and covered entertaining terrace at the rear of the home, as well as a large roof deck at the front. Wide-plank white oak flooring, flush thresholds, and continuous surfaces create a resort-like sense of openness and uninterrupted architectural flow from inside to out. Anchoring the great room is a custom three-sided gas fireplace with a smooth limewash finish, while recessed shade pockets integrated into the tray ceiling preserve the clean, modern lines of the space. Adjacent to the main gallery are a private, all-glass office with custom built-ins and a luxurious powder room featuring a one-of-a-kind imported Italian marble sink. Sleek yet approachable, the kitchen is appointed with custom cabinetry handcrafted by a third-generation local cabinetmaker. The white oak slab design is complemented by integrated painted elements and minimalist hardware, while mixed-metal fixtures add dimension and refinement. A fully integrated paneled appliance suite includes Sub-Zero refrigeration and Wolf cooking appliances. Quartzite countertops and a matching backsplash blend effortlessly into the design, striking a balance between crisp modern lines and organic natural materials. Just beyond the kitchen, a sophisticated wet bar with a refrigerated wine column enhances the entertaining experience, while a spacious pantry concealed behind a cabinet-matched pocket door provides exceptional storage. Outdoor living is every bit as thoughtfully considered as the interiors. Extending directly from the main living areas, the covered terrace functions as an additional gathering space, complete with a fireplace, wet bar, and integrated media capabilities overlooking the pool terrace. An adjacent powder room conveniently serves the pool and outdoor entertaining areas. Designed for effortless entertaining on a grand scale, the main level opens to more than 2,000 square feet of seamlessly connected indoor-outdoor living space, creating a natural flow between the home’s refined interiors and its expansive exterior amenities. Positioned high above the surrounding canopy, the primary suite offers a serene private retreat designed to calm the senses. The spa-inspired bath features dual custom vanities, a curbless wet room with an oversized freestanding soaking tub, a spacious shower, and elevated detailing throughout. A glass-enclosed gallery leads to two generous walk-in closets, completing the suite. Thoughtfully positioned along the eastern wing of the home, the secondary bedrooms are separated from the primary suite by a skylit corridor that creates a dramatic sense of light and scale. Two of the bedrooms share a bath with a separate dual-vanity area and private wet room, while the third features an en-suite bath and direct access to the rear terrace. A spacious laundry room completes the upper level. Complementing the home’s principal living and bedroom spaces, the lower level is designed for relaxed entertaining and everyday comfort. Fifteen-foot ceilings continue through the spacious family room, lending a dramatic sense of volume and creating an inviting setting for gathering, recreation, and unwinding. A glass-enclosed fitness studio adds a sleek architectural element, while a private guest suite with a full bath offers comfortable accommodations for overnight visitors. A highly stylized mudroom with custom built-ins and multiple thoughtfully integrated storage areas complete this exceptionally functional level. Despite its serene, tucked-away setting, Birdsong remains exceptionally connected to the best of the region. The C & O Canal Towpath and Mohican Swim Club are just a short walk away, with Glen Echo Park nearby and the shopping and dining of Westbard Square, Bethesda Row, and Friendship Heights within easy reach. Georgetown, the Kennedy Center, downtown Washington, Union Station, and both Reagan National and Dulles airports are also readily accessible, offering an ideal balance of privacy, recreation, and urban convenience. Originally conceived as the developer’s private residence, Birdsong reflects a level of architectural vision, craftsmanship, and refinement rarely found in today’s built-to-sell market.