Fairfax County Tree Struck By Lightning To Get A New Life

A treasured tree of the nature center in Fairfax County which was struck by lightning is about to get a new life. The 130-year-old tulip poplar tree, which is 100-feet tall, was the main attraction at Hidden Oaks Nature Center in Annandale. You could spot wildlife, such as flying squirrels and birds here.
Sculptures at the lightning stricken tree
Judy Pedersen of Fairfax County Park Authority said, "The tree had a long history of being part of children’s lives. It had all kind of [feeding] boxes on it, and people would look out the window and get a natural experience.” According to wtop.com, "After the tree was hit by at least two bolts of lightning during a storm last year, it appeared as if its story was ending. But that was not to be. The tree’s 10-foot-tall stump was not damaged, so a fundraising drive was mounted to pay for a chain saw artist turn it into sculpture." Artist Andrew Mallon and parks authority collaborated on the design of the sculpture. The design features about a dozen different woodland creatures including a fox, a raccoon, owls, and a turtle. As per wtop.com, "Visitors to the nature center on Monday saw Mallon in action, and there will be other chances to see him transform a stump into a work of art this week. He is scheduled to finish the work Thursday or Friday. Except on Tuesday, when the nature center is closed to walk-in visitors, you can watch Mallon in action during operating hours."

Properties in Annandale

*Open Houses: 5-7 PM Friday, April 19 | 1-3 PM Saturday, April 20 | 1-4 PM Sunday, April 21.

4917 Sunset Ln

* MAIN LEVEL BEDROOMS, KITCHEN, LAUNDRY - with a 2-car oversized garage! Tucked away at the end of a quiet drive in the heart of Annandale, you will find this charming brick-front rambler. Set on a beautifully landscaped .6-acre lot with azaleas and other flora, with a peek of the neighborhood pond, you have found your haven. As you head up the long driveway, you are surrounded by bursts of spring color from the various perennial blooms. Ahead is the oversized detached garage, with plenty of space for 2 vehicles, PLUS extra storage, workshop space, and even a separate room perfect for home gym or office space! As you enter the main front door and step into the foyer, you will be greeted by the serene formal living room which flows into the formal dining room. Double glass doors take you out to the deck and fenced yard, where you can enjoy cocktails with friends while you watch the summer evenings' firefly shows. Off the dining room, the spacious kitchen awaits. The beautifully updated space includes quartzite countertops with custom-color cabinetry, designer tile backsplash, and stainless steel appliances. The large island is perfect for friends to gather while you whip up a culinary masterpiece! With plenty of additional space for a breakfast table, you can pull a chair up to the large picture window to watch the birds while you drink your morning coffee. Off the kitchen is the large family room with brick accent wall, full bath, and separate entrance--offering potential for a second primary suite! On the other side of the home you will find the peaceful primary bedroom with double closets, overlooking the yard space. The impressive NEW ensuite bath has an expanded shower and all new modern fixtures! Two light-filled secondary bedrooms and an updated hall bath complete the home. This commuter-friendly location offers easy access to Backlick and Braddock Roads, as well as I-95, 495, and 395! Don't feel like driving? Hop on mass transit at one of the nearby bus routes or Backlick Rd. VRE Station! Plenty of Annandale's finest restaurants and shopping are just minutes away. Stop by, sit outside on the deck, and appreciate the serenity! [ - $799,888]

Great Annandale location of a 2-bedrom, 1 bath condo.

4345 Ivymount Ct #9

Living room and dining combo with hardwood flooring. Unit is on backside of the building providing a fantastic view of the rear wooded area from the balcony (or living room) that affords maximum privacy and a view of the hiking trail that leads to the pool. The main bedroom includes a walk-in closet and a large picture window providing of light. Bedroom 2 also has a large picture window providing maximum light. Two hall closets - one a linen closet and the 2nd a walk-in closet for plenty of extra storage. The best upgrade feature to this unit is recessed lighting in all rooms. The on-site laundry room is just outside the door of this unit and there is also an additional storage area for residents. Restaurants nearby and bus stops within walking distance. [Ivymount Court - $350,000]

An outstanding location is just one of the amazing features for this great leader of the pack home.

4783 Kandel Ct

The welcoming foyer leads to a great living room flooded by natural light coming in through the tall windows. Ample dining area for your formal dining and memory makings. Great remodeled kitchen for your culinary talent boasts lots of cabinets and quartz counter space along with elegant stainless-steel appliances, recessed lighting, breakfast nook for your favorite morning drink while checking the newspaper or for your snack time and a convenient pantry, ideal for all your nonperishable food reserve. The sleeping quarters feature a roomy primary bedroom and bathroom with dressing area and ample his and hers closet. Bathrooms feature tub/shower for a relaxing bath after a hard day’s work or a quick shower for the morning rush. And, for your area of entertainment and relaxation, you have a large recreation room on the lower level and extra space for your exercise, hobby room or a home office. Elegant wood and Italian ceramic floors complement the space. Reading time or listening to your favorite classics will be more enjoyable when done by the warmth of one of the fireplaces. New glass french door to patio where the in season fun will be had. Many upgrades trough the years; among others Windows, Inside doors, Roof, Insulated basement, Basement floor, Water heater, HVAC. One year home warranty included at settlement for peace of mind. Before returning to your vehicle check to your right at the end of the sidewalk the neighboring school open field, where your morning or afternoon walk could take place. Located in Annandale, the heart of Fairfax County in northern Virginia, the property offers an easy commute; just a couple of light to 395, 495 and 95. Minutes to Springfield and Tyson’s corner malls, Metro, GM University, DC, Pentagon, Old town Alexandria, Reagan National Airport, National Harbor, the MGM casino complex, and other points of interest. Near grocery stores, shopping areas, restaurants, and Northern Virginia Community College. Come and see. [Heritage Village - $584,900]

INVESTOR OPPORTUNITY in Annandale! Lovely, spacious 4 bedroom, 3.

4915 Herkimer St

5 bath, 3-level end unit downhome in Bristow Village. Step inside the light-filled main level, which includes an eat-in kitchen, formal dining area, living room, and half bath. Kitchen includes granite countertops and gas stove! Large back yard area off of living room, with ample deck space, as well as a retractable electric awning so you can enjoy the yard rain or shine. Fully finished basement with family room, bedroom, and full bathroom. Upstairs includes large primary bedroom suite with attached bath featuring jacuzzi tub, plus an additional 2 bedrooms and separate bathroom. Two parking spaces included out front. Community pool open in summer! Inside beltway and 15 minute walk to Audrey Moore Rec Center. Close to Annandale Town Center shopping and restaurants! [Americana Fairfax - $539,900]

MODEL HOME BLOCK AWAY: 4053 Thornton St, CALL SHOWING CONTACT DREW LAWLESS.

4028 Travis Pkwy

Presenting a truly unique open-concept floorplan on a generously sized 0.36-acre homesite, this magnificent residence spans an impressive 8329 sq ft (inside and outside living area plus garages). With 7.5” European French Oak flooring throughout and 10-foot soaring ceiling heights, this home is a masterpiece of elegance and thoughtful design. Showcasing remarkable attention to detail, this residence boasts an extensive trim package, featuring 7½-inch baseboards, 7-inch crown moldings, and 4-inch casings around windows and doorways. The sophisticated Quartz countertops in the kitchen and in all seven bathrooms add a touch of luxury, complementing the expansive MI casement windows that flood the entire house with natural light and offer excellent ventilation. The kitchen is a culinary dream, equipped with a Top Chef-worthy appliance suite. Stainless steel standouts include a Café™ 48" Smart Dual-Fuel Commercial-Style Range with 6 Burners and Griddle (Natural Gas), a Café™ 48" Smart Built-In Refrigerator, a Café 30” Combination Double Wall oven/microwave, and a Café Smart dishwashing system. The designer kitchen is complete with two-tone Legacy cabinetry, soft-close features, and two stylish island pendant light fixtures, making it the centerpiece of the expansive open-concept family living area. Designed for seamless indoor/outdoor living, the home features an ample Trex deck with a Pella pocketing 5-panel sliding door, seamlessly extending the living space into an attractive all-season outdoor gathering area. To customize your deck, there’s the popular option to add Phantom motorized retractable screens, ideal for any climate or season, disappearing at the touch of a button. The main level is complemented by a private in-law suite, strategically located for convenience and accessibility. This thoughtful addition eliminates the need for stairs, making it an ideal arrangement for those seeking both privacy and proximity to the heart of the home. Extra-wide staircases enhance the grand and open feel, ensuring the upper and lower levels are easily accessible and effortlessly integrated into the overall flow of the home. The upper-level features four curated bedroom suites, each designed to cater to the individual needs of residents and guests. The Owner's Suite is a luxurious retreat, opening to a charming screened-in porch—a perfect spot to savor morning coffee or unwind in the evening breeze. Inside the suite, a well-appointed sitting area, cozy fireplace, and wet bar create a private retreat. The Owner's Bath features heated floors, a spa-like steam shower, two toilet rooms, and two expansive walk-in closets. The centerpiece of this retreat is a Stargaze freestanding tub, offering a space for ultimate relaxation. The lower level is a haven for wellness, fitness, and entertainment. A lavish steam room and dry sauna provide a spa-like retreat, complemented by a padded floor gym for invigorating workouts. The stunning waterfall quartz wet bar adds sophistication to the entertainment space, fully equipped with a beverage fridge, microwave, and dishwasher. The 6th bedroom suite on the lower level offers privacy, featuring a generously sized closet and a beautifully appointed en-suite bathroom. The three-car garage is equipped with an electric car-ready charger, epoxy-coated floors, and strategically placed windows for natural light. The home is ideally located in a family-friendly community, surrounded by excellent schools, parks, and amenities. With easy access to major highways, commuting is a breeze, allowing for more quality time with loved ones. Google Premier Homes Group LLC in Northern Virginia to find our portfolio of homes. [ - $2,215,580]

Step inside the Fisher model home, curated by Premier Homes Group—a refined display of elegance and sophistication.

4051 Thornton St

This masterpiece presents a comprehensive indoor and outdoor living area including garages, summing up to 8,441 square feet. Embracing 1,466 square feet dedicated to covered porches, decks, patios, and balconies, it offers a seamless blend of luxurious spaces. Additionally, the inclusion of a meticulously crafted three-car garage with painted exteriors, epoxy floors, high ceilings, and six-inch baseboards contributes to the overall constructed area, making the total footprint of this home 8,441 square feet. Come see our sales rep, located at 4053 Thornton St., invites you to explore its luxurious features and impeccable design during our open viewing hours from Friday through Monday, 12 PM to 4 PM, and by appointment on Tuesday & Wednesday and Thursday. Nestled on a generous 0.34-acre lot, this residence offers a serene backdrop of open space within a charming new development that includes five similar homes. As you enter through the majestic 2-story foyer, the home unfolds with 10-foot ceilings on the main level, creating a spacious and bright ambiance. Every detail has been carefully considered, from the luxurious 7.5-inch European White Oak hardwood floors to the sophisticated moldings, premium lighting, and floor-to-ceiling windows that fill the space with natural light. The heart of this home is the expansive family room, featuring a dual-sided gas fireplace that warms not only the interior but also the covered porch adjoining the breakfast area. The chef's kitchen is a true masterpiece, boasting sleek white cabinetry with glass fronts and top-of-the-line GE Cafe Series stainless steel appliances, including a 48-inch dual fuel gas range, a convenient pot filler, range hood, built-in microwave/wall oven, and a 48-inch built-in fridge. The center island with a striking waterfall quartz countertop adds a touch of glamour. Upstairs, discover four bedrooms, each with its own private en-suite bathroom. The luxurious owner's suite is a retreat in itself, offering a cozy sitting area with a gas fireplace, a screened porch, two walk-in closets, and an opulent en-suite bath featuring a freestanding soaking tub, dual water closets, and a spacious, frameless glass ultra walk-in shower with a built-in seat. The lower level is equally impressive, featuring a 3-stop elevator, an additional bedroom with a full bath, a family room with a dual-sided gas fireplace opening to a vast covered flagstone patio, a wet bar, and a second laundry room. Quality is evident in every aspect of this home, from structural components to the smallest details. Situated in a prime location, Red Oak Manor offers easy access to major highways like 495 and I-66, and is close to a variety of shopping, dining, parks, and entertainment options. Experience luxury living in a friendly community at Red Oak Manor. Don't miss the opportunity to make this exceptional property your home. Visit us during our open viewing hours or schedule a private appointment today. Google Premier Homes Group LLC. in Northern Virginia. [ - $2,177,980]

Open Sunday 2pm-4pm* Welcome to this beautifully updated and expanded colonial on a premium cul-de-sac lot inside the beltway with a must-see backyard oasis.

7209 Sanford Ct

The home has been meticulously maintained and includes upgrades galore that are sure to impress. Key improvements include: *Upper-level addition (approx. 400 sq ft) with new primary bedroom, bathroom, and walk-in closet (2019), Added screened porch (2019), New roof & gutters (2019), New electrical panel (2016), New windows (2016), New Fence (2017), Expanded kitchen (2021). Other recent improvements include fresh paint, upgraded lighting, gas line to grill, new blinds, new stairs in backyard, extensive landscaping, and much more! The main level features beautiful hardwood flooring, an open kitchen with updated cabinetry, quartz counters, and stainless appliances that opens to the dining area and has direct access to the deck. The main level also includes a living room and spacious family room addition with gas fireplace and access to the new screened porch. The expanded upper-level features 3 bedrooms, an office, and 2 full bathrooms. The finished walk-out basement features a large rec room, full bathroom, laundry, and two unfinished storage rooms. The fenced rear yard includes an expansive deck, screened porch, and patio overlooking the mature landscaping and perfectly manicured lawn – lots of room to run and play. All of this just minutes to major commuting routes, restaurants, shopping, 395, Arlington, Alexandria, Mosaic District, Tysons, DC and so much more! Schedule a tour today! *NOTE – property is configured as a 3 bedroom. 4th bedroom was converted to an office and used to access primary suite* [Broyhill Crest - $850,000]

Spacious 1 bedroom, 1 bath condo close to I-495, schools, shopping, and more! New paint and floors throughout.

4931 Americana Dr #103

New microwave and refinished cabinets. This beautiful condo is nestled in the back of the neighborhood and is surrounded by trees. This main level unit has access from the parking lot via stairs or concrete ramp. All utilities EXCEPT for electricity included in condo fees. Do not miss out on this amazing opportunity!!! Priced to sell and will go fast! [Fairfax Heritage - $199,999]

Annandale, Fairfax County, , , ,

Maryam

View posts by Maryam
Maryam N. is a Senior Writer at Nesbitt Realty. She is an expert on Fairfax County. Maryam has also worked previously as a geologist. She is a foodie and enjoys cooking and exploring new restaurants.