Trumpy Estate in Annapolis: Classic Severn River Waterfront Living
The Trumpy Estate in Annapolis, Maryland, blends understated traditional elegance with rich maritime history and sweeping views of the Severn River. Five years ago, Nels and Kristen Olson were drawn to the property for its waterfront orientation, classic design and neighborhood boating culture.
Waterfront Lifestyle and Neighborhood Character
“Everything centers around the water,” says Nels Olson, an executive at a senior-level talent firm. In this neighborhood, residents commonly ask whether you “sail or power” rather than what you do for a living. The Olsons identify as powerboaters, and the home’s deepwater access and dock facilities reflect that passion.
Property Overview
Offered for $4.495 million, the 1.1-acre landscaped property was designed and built by John Trumpy Sr. of the renowned John Trumpy and Sons yacht yard. The estate includes a three-story main residence with five bedrooms and four-and-a-half baths; 85 feet of bulkheaded deepwater frontage; a dock equipped with two boat lifts and a guest slip; a two-car garage with attached guest quarters; two outbuildings; and a swimming pool. The site is carefully terraced to take full advantage of the river views and outdoor living spaces.
Traditional Interiors with Maritime Influences
A formal living room and a dining room with a dry bar flank the central hall, which runs the length of the house and opens to the rear, where large windows in the common rooms capture expansive Severn River views. Crown moldings, white-painted woodwork and hardwood floors throughout create a cohesive traditional aesthetic. The living room centers on a wood-burning fireplace, while the white-paneled family room offers a more casual, comfortable setting.
The kitchen serves as an everyday gathering spot. A previous owner, who was a chef, designed the kitchen and imported a fireplace from France; the Olsons have since upgraded the appliances, including installing a six-burner Wolf gas range. A granite-topped central island, matching countertops and custom cabinetry separate the kitchen from an informal waterfront dining area. French doors open directly to the rear lawn, enhancing indoor-outdoor flow.
Bedrooms, Lower Level and Guest Quarters
The upper level hosts three carpeted bedrooms, each with a private bath, offering comfortable private spaces for family or guests. The walk-out lower level features a tile-floored media and sitting room with custom built-ins and detailed woodwork, and French doors that open to a terrace. A carpeted bedroom on this level can be closed off with custom shutter doors for privacy. Additional amenities on the lower level include a full bath, sauna, wine cellar, workroom, utility room and ample storage.
Attached to the two-car garage is a covered outdoor poolside entertaining center with a dining area, full bar and cooking area where the Olsons frequently grill. The pool is surrounded by a brick patio and wood decking, and a convenient full bath opens to the outdoor space. Above the poolside entertaining area, guest quarters provide a cathedral ceiling with exposed beams, two queen-size sleeping lofts, built-in cabinetry and a balcony that overlooks the pool.
Landscaping, Outbuildings and Dock
The property slopes gracefully down to the water and includes an English-style garden with a variety of private seating areas. The Olsons make use of an outbuilding near the water and a vintage garden shed for storage and equipment. The pier provides 8-foot depths at mean low water and includes a 12,500-pound lift suitable for their 25-foot boat, an additional 10,000-pound lift, a guest slip, upgraded 100-amp service and new pilings—features that make the site well-equipped for active boating.
Mechanical Systems and Taxes
The home is serviced by gas-fired forced hot-air heating, central air conditioning, and local public sewer and water. Annual property taxes are approximately $36,300.
Listing and Contact
The property is listed by Elizabeth Dooner of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, Annapolis Church Circle, Annapolis. Contact: (410) 725-8973. Office: (410) 263-8686.
This article originally appeared in the January 2016 issue.
