Here's How You Can Live in a Historic Space on Capitol Hill
Many of DC's most captivating real estate spaces on the market today are historic dwellings that have been uniquely repurposed for luxurious living. The former Edmonds School, located on the corner of D Street, NE and 9th Street on Capitol Hill is one such example. With its pitched roof and exposed brick, the school combines the charm of the original building with contemporary interiors, including dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows. Designed in 1902 by noted Washington architects Marsh and Peter, the school served its community well, finally closing in the 1990s after being used commercially for two decades. The architects continue to draw praise for their creative use of the Colonial Revival style of the era to fit the school building architecture, much of which lingers today in the exposed masonry and elegant moldings.
An Educated Address
Early marketing materials for the development cited the benefits of living at "an educated address" in the heart of Capitol Hill between Eastern Market and the thriving H Street Corridor. Despite the area's easy access to entertainment, dining, and other attractions, the quiet, tree-lined streets give off a suburban, almost secluded feel. Not surprisingly, the 20 lofts and four town homes were the subject of frantic bidding when the project delivered in 2014. The 1-2 bedroom lofts range in size from 500 - 1,800 SF featuring exposed brick, soaring ceilings, and recessed lighting. Bosch appliances, Silestone counters, and European cabinetry deliver all of the new age comforts while complementing the bones of the original space. Select floor plans include a den and up to 2 1/2 bedrooms. Amenities for the building are generous, including elevator service, onsite parking (a rarity for Capitol Hill), and a communal deck perfect for intimate gatherings of neighbors and friends.
For those looking for a larger space, the town homes feature 3 bedrooms or 3 bedrooms + Den floor plans spanning 3,700 - 4,100 SF. The multi-level brownstones offer 10' ceilings on the first floor with approximately 9' floor to ceiling heights on all other levels. Sun-filled open floor plans provide such extras as a gas fireplace, tray ceiling over the dining area and adjacent breakfast room designed to take advantage of the morning light. Top of the line finishes in the kitchen include a Viking gas range, Liebherr stainless steel refrigerator as well as Bosch appliances and custom cabinetry. Hardwood flooring flows throughout all the main levels. The latest in amenities include the Nest programmable thermostats as well as a Vintage Security alarm system. A bonus room on the lower level can double as a media room or au-pair suite with build-outs for a small kitchenette or additional washer/dryer closet.
Other Repurposed School Properties
If you can't find your dream home in the Edmonds School, the Bryan School is yet another repurposed school located on Capitol Hill. Converted to luxury lofts in 2008 by Abdo Development, the Bryan School dominates Bryan Square, a Capitol Hill community that is home to many of DC's elite. Originally built in 1906, the Bryan School features oversize windows as well as soaring ceilings. The entrance is easily distinguishable by the stately stone columns and pediments, dating from the original structure.
If you're looking outside Capitol Hill, Logan Circle is home to Cooper Lewis, a former showroom converted to condos from a hardware store built in 1897. Located at the corner of 14th and P, the celebrated glass and steel building offers the convenience of Logan Circle's nightlife and easy proximity to the downtown as well as a number of custom finishes. Select homes retain the brick walls from the original showroom while all units feature a balcony or terrace to enjoy the city lights. With only 20 residences and 14 different floor plans, each home is unique.
Whether it's a school, industrial space, or treasured retailer, DC residents have a number of options in selecting properties that come with a storied past all their own.
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