A rare, turnkey jewel box of architecture and design, 1321 Darnall Drive is a private oasis with the warmth of an established neighborhood and walkability to parks and downtown McLean. Surrounded by lush acreage and mature landscaping, the home offers seclusion without isolation, while remaining close to schools, dining, shopping, recreation, and Washington, D.C. is a seamless commute away. Located in the exclusive Ballantrae neighborhood, this exceptional property is set among some of McLean’s most coveted estates. Completed in 2025, the custom estate is the result of a collaboration among nationally recognized leaders in architecture, interior design, and construction. AD100 designer Mark D. Sikes conceived the interiors and outdoor living environments in one of his select commissions in the Washington region. The architecture, a joint vision of Harrison Design and James McDonald, pairs classical proportion with modern function. The residence was executed by Artisan Builders in partnership with Champion Brothers and PC Stone. Exceptional craftsmanship is evident in exterior wood windows, solid wood interior doors, custom millwork and cabinetry, copper gutters, and specially sourced stone. Every element was curated with wellness in mind. Construction choices prioritize non and low VOC natural materials, whole house air and water filtration systems, and solid wood construction throughout interior millwork, cabinetry, and doors. Unfolding across approximately 11,000 square feet, the home reveals refined, light-filled interiors that flow toward garden vistas. Wide-plank white oak floors, sophisticated millwork, and custom Water Street Brass hardware establish an atmosphere of understated warmth. Banks of French doors across the main level create a connection to terraces, gardens, and outdoor living spaces. At the heart of the residence, the kitchen features custom cabinetry, premium appliances by Wolf, Sub-Zero, and Miele, and a central island topped with honed marble and rich walnut. An inviting eating area opens to the family room, anchored by a twelve-foot coffered ceiling and floor-to-ceiling glass overlooking the grounds. An adjacent butler’s pantry features walnut countertops while a discreet scullery adds integrated marble surfaces and dedicated culinary space. The main level includes a study enveloped in hand-painted Gracie wall covering and framed by custom bookcasesThe primary suite offers twelve-foot ceilings and a dramatic wall of glass facing the water feature. Its spa bath with Calacatta Gold and Thassos marble, dual water closets, a glass-enclosed shower, and a freestanding soaking tub. The upper level offers en-suite bedrooms with walk-in closets and luxurious private baths featuring fittings by Waterworks and Lefroy Brooks. The lower level includes a spacious media and family room with ceiling beams, fireplace, and integrated surround sound; a bar and wine lounge with full-sized Sub-Zero wine storage and refrigeration columns, Miele dishwasher, custom brass bar sink, and beadboard millwork; a dedicated fitness center, large multi-purpose laundry room, game area, and private guest suite with full bath. Carefully aligned with the outdoor kitchen and terrace, the adjacent studio features soaring 27-foot ceilings, exposed beams, shiplap walls, multi-sided windows, and French doors. Outfitted with a full bath, glass shower, and kitchenette, it can serve as a creative studio, private guest retreat, poolside pavilion, or entertaining space. Outside, the grounds unfold as an extraordinary setting for outdoor living and elegant entertaining. A bluestone loggia framed by rich mahogany beams provides a shaded setting for alfresco dining, while the main entertaining terrace is anchored by a magnificent stone fireplace and built-in Kalamazoo grill center. The relationship among the kitchen, family room, loggia, studio, lawn, and terrace creates an effortless flow for intimate dinners and large-scale celebrations.
