Ballard + Mensua Architecture is featured in Architectural Digest for the design and execution of a stunning 7,000-square-foot custom home in McLean, Virginia, known as the “Ultimate Carpenter’s Challenge.” Commissioned by Jack and Nancy Levy, the project embodies Seth Ballard’s philosophy of treating every build as a work of art, blending timeless craftsmanship with a distinctive mix of Japanese, Spanish, traditional, and Arts and Crafts styles.

The home is filled with bespoke details, including Western Red Cedar used in the entranceway, stair tower, great room, and backyard pergola. Custom millwork, hand-finished cabinetry, and precision-engineered structural elements elevate the project far beyond typical residential construction.

“My builder teaches his crew that, on my projects, they’re building a piece of furniture—not rough framing a house,” Ballard explains. This commitment to detail is evident not only in the visible finishes but also in every hidden layer, from thicker drywall to carefully constructed walls and ceilings.

The result is a warm, richly textured home that reflects Ballard + Mensua’s dedication to quality and their clients’ vision. As client Jack Levy shares, “We chose Seth because we loved his architectural style and heard he ensures his plans are executed with impeccable precision and attention to quality.