A Warehouse for Now: What to Expect at 1728 14th Street NW
New project of Perseus Realty to bring a facelift to 1728 14th Street NW. (Luis Gomez Photos)
From Rachel Nania. Check out her blog, Sear, Simmer & Stir. Follow Nania on Twitter @rnania, email her at rachel[AT]borderstan.com
The 14th Street area between Logan Circle and Columbia Heights has seen a revitalization like no other area of DC over the past several years. The neighborhood is filling up with new restaurants and boutiques, while preserving and restoring older, historic landmarks.
And while it seems like another new business is opening weekly, there are still some buildings and blocks on the strip that could use a little TLC.
Take, for example, the abandoned Granger warehouse at 1728 14th Street NW. The windowless and vandalized brick building is a bit of an eyesore among its bustling neighbors, including Redeem, Cork and the Black Cat. But not for long — the warehouse at 14th and S Streets NW is getting a facelift and makeover.
The project developer, Perseus Realty, hopes to begin an exterior façade renovation in January 2013. The architect, Bonstra|Haresign, intends to leave the interior floor plan intact, for the most part, but will completely remodel the exterior of the building for commercial and retail space.
“The area is maturing and has lots of apartments and residences,” said Robert Cohen, president of Perseus Realty. “Now the local population needs other services, and that is what we are hoping this renovated building will provide.”
While the developers have an idea of the types of businesses and retailers they hope to attract, there are no firm lease plans in place.
“We know that neighborhood retail [in the renovated building] will be a great addition to the services already established in the area,” said Cohen.
Stay tuned for more information as the project continues.
