Background
Developed by Edmund J. Bennett and designed by Keys, Lethbridge, and Condon (KLC) between 1962 and 1966, Carderock Springs is a subdivision of 360 modernist houses located northwest of Bethesda. Like other Bennett and KLC projects, the neighborhood was carefully planned to highlight the natural landscape, with curving streets and cul-de-sacs that followed the wooded, sloping terrain.
The homes represent a variety of models tailored to different site conditions, yet they share a cohesive design aesthetic that reflects Bennett’s vision of a unified “visual community.”
National Register of Historic Places
The National Park Services listed the Carderock Springs Historic District in the National Register of Historic Places in 2008. The designation is primarily honorific and does not restrict private property owners from altering or demolishing their homes. However, it provides property owners access to state historic preservation tax credits.
Master Plan for Historic Preservation
On October 30, 2025, the Carderock Springs Citizens Association (CSCA) requested that Montgomery Planning study Carderock Springs for possible designation in the County’s Master Plan for Historic Preservation.
Adopted by the County Council in 1979, the Master Plan for Historic Preservation is Montgomery County’s official preservation planning document. It includes all designated historic sites and districts. Designation of a property or entire district signifies that it has been thoroughly researched by preservation specialists and reviewed by the Historic Preservation Commission and the Planning Board, and approved and adopted by the County Council. Once designated, a site or district is protected under the Chapter 24A of the County Code, Historic Resources Preservation.
Designation in the Master Plan for Historic Preservation: 1) recognizes significant architectural and cultural sites and districts; 2) protects buildings and neighborhoods from demolition; 3) manages exterior alterations to resources; 4) provides owners with information on care, restoration, and preservation; and 5) qualifies owners for local historic preservation tax credits.
Project Timeline
2024-2025
The Historic Preservation Division attends several community meetings and townhalls hosted by CSCA.
- October 14, 2024: In-person community meeting
- April 10, 2025: In-person community meeting
- April 22, 2025: Virtual community meeting
- September 16, 2025: Virtual town hall
- October 6, 2025: In-person town hall
October 2025
CSCA formally submits a request for Montgomery Planning to study Carderock Springs for potential designation in the Master Plan for Historic Preservation.
March 2026
The Historic Preservation Division will conduct an architectural (photographic) survey of the study area. This survey will focus on documenting only the exterior of homes and properties.
Next Steps
The Historic Preservation Division will coordinate with CSCA to share survey findings with the community. Working collaboratively with CSCA and residents, staff will then establish a schedule for the designation process and the development of design guidelines.
Staff contact
John Liebertz
301-563-3405
Email