8611 Country Club DriveBethesda, MD 20817Price: $6,500,000

Tucked away behind the nationally-renowned Congressional Country Club, its namesake Country Club Drive is one of Bethesda’s most prestigious streets, with a mere 26 of the very finest estate homes dotted along sweeping curves in a picturesque setting. Within this rarified air, at the apex of a verdant cul-de-sac, is this quintessential colonial estate home. Tucked away far back from the street, its elegant approach is via an elegant circular driveway, revealing a white brick facade capped by a cedar shake roof evoking cues of classic old-world New England colonials situated on large swaths of land, and exuding an ethos of quiet luxury. Contrasting black shutters infuse the classic exterior with a modicum of modernity as one approaches the central front door via flagstone walkway. The blend of tradition and currency is further carried through the interiors, which have been comprehensively reimagined to suit the tastes of a contemporary luxury clientele while retaining its quintessential elegance. A traditional center hall foyer is flanked by embassy sized formal living and dining rooms. The former can be discreetly closed off via pocket doors, enjoying an ethereal palette augmented by natural light flooding in from the Palladian window on its far side, illuminating the roaring fireplace wall flanked by custom built-ins. The latter also showcases a fireplace, one of five in the home, this one featuring a bold, dark marble surround to complement the moody, sophisticated palette la fine dining establishment – for sophisticated large scale entertaining. A transverse gallery bifurcates the main level’s formal and informal spaces, with the large family room and its wall of glass, rustic floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace wall, and patio access serving as a midpoint. The chef’s kitchen is the heart of the informal wing. Enjoying almost a European-level of minimalism, its white shaker cabinetry and matching counters conceal a comprehensive suite of state-of-the-art appliances, and are contrasted by a dark, full-height backsplash wall. A large family entrance and mudroom, additional powder room, connection to the butler’s pantry, and direct access to the oversized three-car garage are conveniently tucked away in this wing. A private library with built-ins connected to a spacious den surrounded by glass, both with coffered ceilings, completes the main level. A transverse hallway on the upper level commences at the top of the sweeping staircase and mirrors that of the gallery below. The exquisite primary suite spans the entire width of the upper level, with a large bedroom overlooking the lush grounds. The central dressing room is akin to a luxury boutique in scale and layout, with multiple nooks all surrounded by extensive illuminated built-ins. Minimalist yet still lavish, the primary bath boasts the ubiquitous double vanity, freestanding soaking tub, separate water closet, and walk-in shower. Three additional generously proportioned bedrooms, each with a designer ensuite bath, complete the upper level alongside a spacious and conveniently located laundry room. A finished third level comprises two additional private bedroom suites, ideal for young adults, a fitness studio, bonus space, or a fully private telecommuting solution, as well as ample storage space. A comprehensive entertainment zone, the lower level revolves around a substantial recreation room which spans over 47 feet in length. A professional home cinema is found at one end, while a large fitness center and step-down game room, currently set up as a golf simulator, are found at the other. A spa-inspired bath including a full sauna completes the space. The home’s outdoor space is another certain highlight, occupying 2.06 coveted acres in a proximate Bethesda location. The manicured landscaping is complemented by a flagstone patio, comprising a pergola above a modern linear fire pit, full outdoor kitchen, and sunken hot tub.