HPO Recommends Approval of Barrel House Apartments in Logan Circle

• January 23rd 2017

by Nena Perry-Brown

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The Historic Preservation Office (HPO) is recommending that the Historic Preservation Review Board (HPRB) approve the concept for the planned redevelopment of the former Barrel House Liquor store in Logan Circle based on the design’s compatibility with the 14th Street historic district.

Metropolis Development Company is planning to deliver a seven-story building with 37 rental units over retail at 1341 14th Street NW (map). The facade and iconic barrel at 1345 14th Street NW will be restored and will function as the entrance to the commercial space on the site, while the residential entrance will be located on Rhode Island Avenue.

“The restoration of the distinctive 1940s storefront will retain and enhance an unusual and much-appreciated architectural icon in the neighborhood,” the report states.

Also, while the building will be taller than its neighbors, the report finds that its height and setback still conform to the varied heights of the streetscape, with the bulk of the building along Rhode Island Avenue at six stories and the 14th Street facade standing four stories above the barrel entrance. The remaining floors and a penthouse level will be set further back.

The HPO report acknowledged the dull and discordant appearance of the materiality in the renderings, noting that the tones and brick intended for the site are compatible with other buildings in the area and that the development team will select materials based on their appearance on-site.

HPRB will review and consider the Bonstra|Haresign-designed development on Thursday.

This article originally published at https://dc.urbanturf.com/articles/blog/hpo_recommends_approval_of_barrel_house_apartments/12073.