Nestled in the NoMa district of Washington, D.C., stands a new apartment high-rise that nods to the neighborhood’s industrial past while also acknowledging the modern day. AVA NoMa, designed by architecture firm KTGY Architecture + Planning, combines both industrial warehouse features, such as exposed concrete, with modern elements, including sleek metal finishes, to separate itself from other multifamily communities in this rapidly growing area of the city.
A series of murals on the façade also make the building stand out. Developer AvalonBay Communities participated in a local mural festival, Pow! Wow! D.C., in which two murals were painted on the building. Then, the company commissioned another local artist for a much larger mural featuring subjects from the neighborhood.
Tailored to a certain clientele that wants to live the “work hard, play hard” lifestyle, the property’s target market of working professionals and students is looking for the city life, possibly with roommates. The building’s two-bed/two-bath and three-bed/three-bath layouts appeal to this type of renter, while its studios and one-bedrooms welcome others.
The 20,600 square feet of indoor and outdoor amenity space create spots for residents to work, exercise, relax, and socialize. An indoor–outdoor fitness center with yoga, a spin studio, and turf allow tenants to personalize their own workouts.
The roof offers views of the nearby national monuments and items that encourage social interaction, such as comfortable spaces to gather and play games, a 16-by-8-foot big-screen television, an infinity-edge pool, an entertainment kitchen, and an indoor–outdoor lounge. Renters can host happy hours and game-time gatherings to watch sports as well as enjoy an opportunity to mingle with their fellow residents.
Inside the apartments, residents can customize their personal space, but the overall industrial features flow into the spaces as well. Concrete columns, exposed ductwork, and chalkboard walls accent the modern details of stainless steel appliances, quartz counters, and barn doors.
