
Text by Shelby Deering
There are some homes that don’t simply reside on a piece of land they’re a part of it, from the windows that welcome enchanting views to the color palette that echoes the natural surroundings. Leslie and Ken Mann have such a home, nestled in the heart of Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay area.
The couple wasn’t looking to buy when the 3,955-square-foot home drifted into their lives. In fact, they were already living in what they believed to be their forever home. “But this house was for sale close to friends of ours, so we took a look and immediately fell in love with the view and the property,” says Leslie.

Built in 1966, the house needed some care, but the couple saw its potential and knew it was destined to be theirs. Leslie says, “The house needed updating, but it had great bones, and it just felt like home to us right away.” Starting with those great bones and faith that the house could be restored to its former glory, the couple looked to Julie Sweeney, principal designer and owner of Coastal Haven Design, LLC., to guide the process.