Letter
Dear Mr. Scharfstein:
In its meeting of 18 January, the Commission of Fine Arts reviewed a concept design for the redevelopment of a site at 704 3rd Street, NW, for hotel and residential use (case number SL 18-043). Expressing overall support for the project, the Commission approved the concept with the following comments for the development of the design.
The Commission members commented favorably on the scale of the building, both in relation to the other structures framing Judiciary Square and in the proposed building’s presentation at the street level. They supported the proposed concept of designing the large addition as related to, but distinct from, the existing historic building on the site, the Harrison Flats. They suggested that while the new construction should not attempt to mimic the historic building, it should have a carefully calibrated relationship in materials, color, proportions, and articulation—for example at the bays, the windows, and other brick details. They questioned the design of the top stories of the addition, recommending that the design of this portion have a lighter appearance, possibly with larger window openings or a change of material; they also recommended that the Juliet balconies at these floors be eliminated and that the proposed projecting angled walls be reconsidered due to their heavy appearance.
The Commission looks forward to further review of this project. As always, the staff is available to assist you.
Sincerely,
/s/Thomas E. Luebke, FAIA
Secretary
Ilan Scharfstein
Vice President, Development
Renaissance Centro
7501 Wisconsin Avenue, NW, Suite 1103-E
Bethesda, MD 20814
cc: Phil Esocoff, Gensler