SCULPTING SPACE AND HISTORY
AT 1700 PENNSYLVANIA AVE
historic threads in modern fabric: dynamic focal
walls at 1700 Pennsylvania Ave
At the prestigious 1700 Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, DC, a dynamic focal wall stands as a testament to both the rich historical context of the area and the innovative design approach of Studio 618. Read how Lauren Stern and her team at Studio 618 crafted a unique, experiential design element that blends organic inspiration with historical nods, enhancing the architectural space and enriching its narrative.
project overview
Located just a stone's throw from the White House, 1700 Pennsylvania Ave marries the past and present in its design. Studio 618 was commissioned by the Akridge commercial real estate agency to design focal walls that not only beautify the penthouse and lower levels but also resonate with the property's storied surroundings.
design inspiration
Drawing inspiration from the organic and interwoven designs of the penthouse terrace’s flooring and the walnut wood tones found throughout the building, Lauren envisioned a design that reflects the natural and historical elements of DC’s landscape. “The design of the 168 unique fins in the focal wall represents the convergence of different paths, much like the city itself,” Lauren explains.
creative process
The focal wall features a mix of painted MDF and stained walnut fins, each of varying thickness, that evokes a sense of movement and mimics the benches that make up the curving terrace floor. The bench design creates a seamless transition from floor to the actual bench seat. The adjacent walls in the penthouse elevator corridor and the lower level lobby incorporate tone-on-tone environmental graphics that echo the focal wall’s design, guiding visitors towards the building’s lounges and office spaces with subtle elegance.
Studio Displays was instrumental in bringing the dimensional aspects of the wall to life, ensuring each piece was crafted and installed with precision. CSI handled the lower level graphics, integrating flat, vertical 2D slats inspired by the main art piece, coupled with photography that mixes color and black & white imagery of the penthouse vantage point, which overlooks Washington, DC.
intentional materials
The combination of MDF for structural integrity and walnut for warmth and luxury reflects the property’s high standards and the design’s ambitious artistic goals.
material selection and artistic execution
Choosing materials that would both endure and stand out in a corporate environment was crucial. The combination of MDF for structural integrity and walnut for warmth and luxury reflects the property’s high standards and the design’s ambitious artistic goals. “We wanted materials that spoke to both durability and design excellence,” Lauren notes.
challenges and triumphs
One of the significant challenges was ensuring that the installation did not disrupt the daily operations of a bustling office building. Coordination with the fabricators, particularly with Studio Displays, was key to executing the installation efficiently and effectively during the multi-day installation.
The project’s success is evident in the seamless integration of the art into the building’s design, enhancing the spatial experience by creating a visual narrative that guests and tenants engage with daily. “It’s not just about creating a pretty wall; it’s about making a statement that embodies the essence of the location and its history,” Lauren adds.
client and community impact
The response to the new installations has been overwhelmingly positive. Both tenants and visitors have expressed appreciation for the way the art pieces enhance the building’s atmosphere, making the common areas not just pass-through spaces but destinations in their own right.
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final thoughts
This project at 1700 Pennsylvania Ave showcases Studio 618’s dedication to creating spaces that resonate deeply on both aesthetic and historical levels. Through a meticulous blend of design innovation and respect for heritage, Lauren Stern and her team have crafted an enduring visual impact that narrates the site’s legacy through modern design. Lauren notes, “the focal walls at 1700 Pennsylvania Ave are a dialogue between past and present, one that invites engagement and contemplation. I was able to take plain white walls and draw on my background in art to create something really fun and that conveyed a story in a really unique way.”