Black Dirt Farm Collective
Retreat House

Upper Marlboro, MD

The retreat house is designed as a welcoming sanctuary for visitors to the farm, drawing inspiration from the timeless American Foursquare farmhouse. Its thoughtful layout balances openness and intimacy, fostering connection to both the indoors and the surrounding landscape.

The first floor is organized around a central stair, creating a natural flow between spacious living and kitchen areas while framing intentional views of the outdoors. Upstairs, four guest rooms offer comfort and privacy, each paired with a generous bathroom and closet. A third-floor loft expands the home’s capacity, providing additional sleeping quarters and a playful retreat for children.

Rooted in environmental stewardship, the home is constructed with natural, low-carbon materials, including timber framing and prefabricated straw bale walls. Solar panels, high-efficiency lighting, and low-flow plumbing fixtures enhance energy and water conservation, ensuring a sustainable and thoughtful design that reflects the farm’s commitment to both hospitality and ecological responsibility.