A lovely Baltimore row house was recently featured on the August cover of Chesapeake Home. This modern renovation took place shortly after Howie Bartz purchased his home, with help from interior designer Michelle Miller. Inspired by the interiors of boutique hotels, Howie envisioned a space that would reflect his urban lifestyle.

Located in the historic neighborhood of Federal Hill, the first challenge of the renovation was to open up the row house and give it an airy feel. Adding a dining room off the back of the house, with French doors leading out to the patio, opened up the first floor and drastically improved the transition between rooms. In the living room, the fireplace was given a face lift by adding vertical bamboo planks. The focal point of the room — the open tread staircase — was updated with a warm bronze color and custom ebony-stained wood treads.

In the master bedroom, a black chandelier from a Parisian flea market stands out against an unconventional white brick wall. Exposed brick walls are all the rage in Baltimore, but not usually seen painted a stark white. Meaningful artwork, along with random finds from traveling, adorn the home and help reflect his personal style.

But what had me swooning as I read the article — knowing full well the killer views from this part of town — was the outdoor transformation. A slate patio was added to the walkout garden, along with a fountain and bamboo privacy fence. And, as if that wasn't enough of a reason to crash his next party, he has a double rooftop deck with panoramic views of the harbor and skyline!

(Images: Gordon Beall for Chesapeake Home)