Why do so many houses built in the country look like they belong in the suburbs? This contemporary interpretation of an old-time farmstead with silo is like nothing else on the market. A work of art designed by award-winning architect Barbara Mullenex, AIA, to bless one particular hilltop in Washington County, Md., "The Oaks" is a hushed retreat for anyone who will never tire of catching glimpses of wildlife from 56 mountain-view windows and listening to rain on the metal roof at night. One decompressing hour's drive from downtown DC, its 40 acres of field and forest and 60-mile view are forever protected against further development by Maryland's "rural legacy" program. Maintenance of all major trees, including more than 50 dogwoods, is chronicled with a data base. A once-productive peach orchard site promises a natural microclimate for grapes. You'll be close to the trains of MARC, the restaurants of Shepherdstown, and the walking paths of Antietam National Battlefield--plus a profusion of Civil War sites. But why go anywhere when the sunset changes every evening from two patios and a balcony? When Eastern Bluebirds swoop low over the stocked pond for dinner on the wing? When the wine cellar cradles climate-controlled vintages? When a neighboring farmer handles outside chores in return for grazing rights. Don't let the deliberately weather-beaten look fool you. Built new to Mennonite standards in 1998-99, all kitchen, bath, laundry and HVAC appliances are modern. Three bedrooms, three baths, private office, 2600 square feet. Two-car garage. From rooftop solar to radon remediation to senior-friendly fixtures to sound system to outdoor shower stall, you'll find almost everything. No bidet. Sorry.