Ponte Mellor Architects, Ltd. (PMA) studied the lifestyle and goals of Sue Hendrickson and Rob Kohn before designing a house that seamlessly accommodates the busy lives of two professionals, their three active children, a large puppy and a full social calendar. Every inch works in their spacious, 7,000 square foot Cape Cod-style home in Bethesda, MD. The couple originally hired PMA to remodel their basement but with their third child on the way, PMA was asked to design a major expansion of their two-bedroom colonial. Once the project was underway, they discovered termite damage, water leaks and roof problems so extensive that there wasn’t much to salvage. They decided to tear down and start over. The spacious kitchen boasts an eight-by-nine-foot geometric island topped with a nearly seamless slab of Russian granite. The cherry cabinets provide plenty of storage. PMA designed an unusual latticework hood over the stainless range, in a simulated white slate. Stainless-steel appliances and a Zebra slate backsplash in charcoal and blue add the finishing touches. The U-shape of the house ensures privacy from the neighbors. The kitchen and living room spill onto a deck and surrounding fieldstone terraces. The family enjoys outdoor entertaining, whether they’re hosting an adults-only dinner party or a kid-friendly marshmallow roast around the fire.