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Carry Lofts...and Lattés?
Photo by Urban Revisions.
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Capitol Hill has seen its share of traditional condos, so it is refreshing to step into Carry Lofts, set apart by non-traditional amenities and a name that reflects the rich history of the neighborhood. And it’s with great pleasure that we see a renewal of the corner of 15th and C Streets, SE. Goodbye, New Dragon, hello modern living.
Neighborhood History
When Chad Anthony of Urban Revisions moved to 15th Street in 2000, he got involved in the community, helping kids learn computer skills, and stretching his hose across the street to water Payne Elementary’s baseball field. His latest service to the community is revamping the corner of 15th and C Streets, SE. Urban Revisions purchased the corner property that housed the New Dragon Carryout and the building next to it, and turned the two blighted properties into a four-unit building of lofts with 1600 sq. ft. of retail space. “We’re envisioning something neighborhood-y going in there,” said Anthony. “Everyone I’ve talked to wants a coffee shop.” The outdoor space boasts a brick patio, and the exterior design is “traditional to fit into the fabric of the neighborhood,” Anthony explained. “The idea with the outdoor patio area is to contribute to the walkable community.”
Anthony researched the history of the Hilleast neighborhood to find a fitting name for the new structure. His search led him back to the late 1800s, when a man by the name of Albert Carry owned the National Capital Brewery on the site now occupied by Safeway at 14th and D Streets, SE. Prohibition saw Carry adapt by turning his brewery into an ice cream packing plant, delivering his wares on a refrigerated electric truck. Albert Carry, who later founded the National Capitol Bank, was great-grandfather to Didden brothers who currently run the bank. So, close to the site of the Brewery/Ice Cream plant, we have Carry Lofts.
Interior Architecture and Design
Dennis Connors of synergy design provided the architectural plans of Carry Lofts. “It is a unique project,” he said. “Unique in the design process, built by the Anthony family. They are highly vested in the community. Not many developers build condo-style in their own community,” said Connors. “As a result, the project came out quite nice.” Connors explained that he and the Anthonys were careful to build in a way that would fit into the character of the quiet homes on C Street, but still “address the prominence of a corner site.”
The Anthony family employed a general contractor for the building, but Chad chose the kitchen elements, and his wife, who works for DC Public Schools, chose the bathroom fixtures and finishes. “My dad is a retired city planner,” he said, “so he was able to deal with DCRA. My mom was responsible for picking out the light fixtures. It’s hard to find lights fitting the building design that look good when you’re looking down on them [from the mezzanine level].”
The floors are black cherry, the grain echoing the ebony kitchen cabinetry. The countertops are Silestone ® Quartz (arguably better than granite), and the appliances are stainless steel in residential or commercial grades. The bathrooms have a textured bamboo tile with Kohler fixtures. All door handles, faucets, and fixtures are chrome or brushed nickel, a sleek look that fits these open, modern lofts. A striking detail is of the exposed Parallam ® Beams, wood structural supports that give a warmth to the kitchens and living spaces.
Community Living
The Lofts are around the corner from Safeway, down the street from the Metro. If you bike, Carry Lofts offers a back entrance into a bike parking room with wall racks on either side. If not, there are two parking spots available for purchase. There’s also a front entrance with a buzz-in system for when your friends come to watch the 4th of July fireworks from your deck. Two units offer a cityscape view and are hooked up for a gas grill. Unit C offers a private storage room off the deck. All units are open and bright. Carry Lofts start in the high $400s. To learn more about Carry Lofts, 257 15th Street, SE, visit www.carrylofts.com or contact Chad Anthony at 202-321-6058. |
