College Ave, Frederick, Maryland
The Baker Park Residence, Custom Home
Combining the historic soul of downtown Frederick with the sophisticated demands of modern living, this custom residence on College Avenue stands as a testament to thoughtful residential architecture. Located on a prominent corner lot overlooking the “gem of Frederick”—Baker Park—this custom home project required a delicate balance: honoring the established character of the neighborhood while delivering a high-performance, contemporary home. The clients approached award-winning residential architect Jonathan Rivera with a specific challenge. They sought an architect who could translate the rhythmic beauty and architectural language of Frederick’s historic homes into a new build that did not feel like a replica, but a continuation of the streetscape.
Our design response focused on a Modern Heritage style. We utilized updated, durable materials that mirror the textures of the surrounding estate homes, ensuring the exterior scales perfectly with the storied environment of Baker Park. While the exterior nods to the past, the interior is a masterclass in modern residential design. Architect Jonathan Rivera moved away from the compartmentalized layouts of the early 20th century, opting instead for an expansive main level with large, open-concept rooms designed for seamless flow, high-end entertaining, and natural light. The upper levels of this custom home in Maryland were tailored specifically to the homeowner’s daily rituals, featuring a primary suite that balances privacy with modern-day conveniences. To meet the unique needs of the family, the design integrates a private yoga studio in the basement, and a fully independent in-law suite situated above the garage. The crowning jewel of this Frederick residence is the second-story covered balcony. Engineered to provide panoramic, unobstructed views of Baker Park in Frederick, Maryland, this outdoor living space serves as a private sanctuary. It allows the homeowners to engage with the vibrant energy of the park while maintaining the exclusivity of their corner lot. Maryland Architect Jonathan Rivera believes a home should serve the personality of its owner while elevating the community it resides in. This College Avenue project is more than just a house; it is a permanent part of the Frederick landscape, designed to age as gracefully as the historic homes that inspired it.
He was the only professional we worked with during our entire journey that treated us with kindness, patience and respect. While everyone else was worried about getting paid, Jonathan put our interests first and stayed… Jonathan treated us like family and was by our side every step of the way.
He was the only professional we worked with during our entire journey that treated us with kindness, patience and respect. While everyone else was worried about getting paid, Jonathan put our interests first and stayed true to his word from the first time we met him. Read More