Page 74 - Spring_2019

ArchDC Spring 2019.qxp_Spring 2019 2/20/19 5:19 PM Page 72

The Archer Renovated lobby of the Archer.

Built beginning in 1925 and previously known as
Cathedral Court, the Archer was designed by Joseph
Younger, who was also the architect of the landmark
Kennedy-Warren Apartments in Cleveland Park. It stands
at the intersection of Massachusetts and Wisconsin avenues,
NW, near the National Cathedral. Unlike Sedgwick Gardens
and the Parkway, the Archer is neither an individual
landmark nor a part of a historic district. Nonetheless,
it is a dignified work of architecture and Bonstra |
Haresign took a respectful approach to its renovation.
The Archer is a mélange of relatively sedate Art
Deco and Tudor revival styles, with a grand neoclassical
archway defining its main entrance. Bonstra | Haresign
began there by restoring the stonework of the entryway,
replacing a fabric awning over the door with an elegant
metal canopy, and adding modern lighting. Inside the
lobby, the architects restored key historic details, such as the
decorative bands at the tops of the columns, while intro-
ducing more modern furniture, carpeting, and lighting.

Renovated entrance to the Archer.

Project: The Archer Renovation,
Washington, DC
Architects/Interior Designers: Bonstra | Haresign ARCHITECTS
Landscape Architects: Allison Brown Design
Structural Engineers: FMC & Associates
MEP Engineers: Metropolitan Engineering Solutions / Shapiro-O’Brien
Civil Engineers: AMT Engineering
Contractors: Hammerhead Construction (public spaces); Ross Renovation
Entrance to the Archer, then known & Construction (units)
as the Cathedral Court, before renovation.

72 UNCOMMON SPACES