Reinventing a Classic Mid-Century Home for Comfort, Health & Vitality
The Retro Rambler is a high-performance, all-electric reinvention of a 1950s classic home—set in the heart of walkable, family-friendly Kensington, Maryland. Completed in the Fall of 2025, this visionary project showcases the future of residential living: sustainability, health, and smart design in perfect harmony.


Photography by Unik Creative Studio and Sean Shanahan Photography
Expanded. Electrified. Elevated.
Reimagined from the ground up, the Retro Rambler features over 3,000 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space. A new 3-level rear addition includes a gourmet kitchen, spacious second-floor primary suite, private in-law suite, and a garden gym or office in the converted shed. The generous front porch and basement living area create room to relax, work, and entertain in style.
Electrify + Fortify for the Future
Every system has been upgraded for 21st-century living. The home is fully electrified—no gas appliances—powered by high-efficiency heat pumps, solar-ready infrastructure, and an EV charger. It’s not just smart—it’s strong. With insulation and air sealing that exceed code requirements, expansive Energy Star windows, and sustainable materials throughout, this home is fortified for comfort, efficiency, and resilience.

Existing Building
• Built in 1952
• Single story with partially finished walkout basement
• 864sf first floor + 650sf finished basement
• Exterior 2×3 panelized walls
• Vinyl exterior siding
• Minimal insulation
• Gas appliances, water heater and furnace

Illustration of the Retro Rambler from the side. A 3-level rear addition (approx 1500sf).
Luxury Meets Performance
Illustration of the Retro Rambler from the side demonstrating the 3-level rear addition (approx 1500sf).Experience the comfort, health and vitality of modern sustainable living in this newly renovated and expanded Retro Rambler featuring Symbi’s full electrification efficiency package, high performance heat pumps, gourmet kitchen, solar power, water and air filtration. Five bedrooms, 3 full baths, garden gym, more than 3000sf of living space including ground floor in-law suite with separate entrance.
Designed by Symbi Homes – Built to Inspire
Symbi Homes is known for blending high-performance building science with sustainable design. The Retro Rambler embodies their mission: to create homes that support healthier living, lower environmental impact, and timeless design appeal.
Latest News
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Nicole shares highlights from Symbi’s recently completed Retro Rambler kitchen,[...]
Roll the Tape!
A perfect seal every time with @zipsystems insulated wall sheathing and taping[...]
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Another huge benefit of using @greenfibersanctuary cellulose as our preferred insulation material[...]
Exsulation: How To
Symbi insulates while re-siding at this 1950s rambler in Maryland.[...]
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Sponsors
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