400 Massachusetts Ave., N.W: Washington, D.C

Masonry Construction, July-August, 2005

This 13-story, 256-unit residential condominium is sited on one of the city's unique triangular blocks and wraps around a historic firehouse. Careful sculpting of the exterior provides enhanced views of the city from all dwelling units, with the upper-story apartments overlooking the major monuments. The building's massing, detail, and facade materials met the elevated design expectations of the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts.

Brick used in the project was especially challenging because it required three colors--Champagne Buff, Fall Tan, and Slate Grey--and three sizes--Utility, Norman, and Closure. Several custom shapes were also required, including lip stretchers, solids, squints, birdsmouths, radials, left lip comers, and right lip corners.

Project Participants

Masonry Contractor: Genco Masonry Inc., Bethesda, Md.

Architect: Esocoff and Associates Architects, Washington, D.C.

Masonry Supplier: I-XI Industries, Medicine Hat. AB, Canada