A rare architectural offering in the heart of Arden, this one-of-a-kind residence is as much a work of craftsmanship as it is a home. Defined by its striking butterfly roof, expansive glass, handcrafted interiors and seamless connection to the outdoors, the property reflects a distinctly mid-century sensibility perfectly at home within one of Delaware's most unique and sought-after communities.
The home's remarkable story began as a 1930s bungalow and took a transformative turn in 1961, when photographer and self-taught architect David A. McClintock (1926–2008) purchased the property from its original owners. Inspired by the work of Frank Lloyd Wright, McClintock spent the next four decades thoughtfully redesigning and rebuilding the home from the foundation. Skylights, expansive sliding glass, handcrafted floors and custom doors reflect his appreciation for natural materials, craftsmanship and the relationship between architecture and its surroundings.
Set on a private half-acre, the three-bedroom, two-bath residence unfolds across two distinct wings, creating an exceptionally flexible floor plan. Newly stained decks extend the living spaces outdoors, while California-style railings and abundant glass reinforce the home's mid-century character and its connection to the landscape.
A welcoming porch leads to the central foyer, where a custom black walnut front door opens to a light-filled entry accented by skylights and distinctive blue tile. Throughout the home, handcrafted random-width oak floors and custom doors fashioned from Koa and black walnut bring warmth, texture and an extraordinary level of artistry.
To one side, the great room wing offers dramatic, light-filled living space with sliding glass doors opening to the decks from two sides. An adjoining kitchen, primary bedroom and secondary bedroom create a flexible arrangement well suited for guests, extended living or a potential in-law suite. Within the primary bedroom, an unexpected loft reached by a sculptural ladder designed and built by George Campion of Taylor's Mill provides a delightful additional space for a studio, office, reading retreat or occasional sleeping area.
The opposite wing continues the home's emphasis on light and indoor-outdoor living. A spacious kitchen with high ceilings, wood floors and a central island opens to a dining area surrounded by sliding glass doors, allowing the interior to flow naturally onto the deck and into the landscape. An additional bedroom, full bath and dedicated laundry room complete this wing.
The property's creative possibilities continue outdoors. Three outbuildings—two with electricity—offer intriguing opportunities for studios, workshops, hobbies or storage, while six thoughtfully integrated storage cubbies along the rear of the home provide additional utility. A distinctive brick driveway and second drive serving the outbuildings provide convenient access and parking.
The setting is an integral part of the experience. Mature landscaping surrounds multiple decks designed for dining, entertaining and quiet retreat, creating a sense of privacy while maintaining the home's constant connection to nature.
And then there is Arden itself—a distinctive village known for its wooded surroundings, individual architecture, artistic spirit and enduring sense of community. Its winding roads and collection of one-of-a-kind homes create a setting unlike nearly anywhere else in northern Delaware, making McClintock's highly personal architectural vision particularly at home here.
More than simply a residence, this is an opportunity to become the next steward of a truly individual property—one shaped over decades by an artist's eye, an architect's imagination and an enduring appreciation for craftsmanship, light and nature.
