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First Church of Christ
Project Information
- Project Location:
- Washington, DC
- Status:
- Completed - Jan 2016
- Structure Type:
- Church / Synagogue
References
- Architect:
- Robert A.M. Stern Architects; Cooper Carry; Kerns Group Architects
- Client:
- First Church of Christ, Scientist
Scope Of Work
Located less than two blocks from the White House, 900 16th Street is a prime piece of real estate for developers and tenants alike. But for decades, the property was prevented from reaching its potential because it was the home of a historic, controversial building. The building in question was the Third Church of Christ, Scientist – an octagonal brutalist-style structure designed by Araldo Cossutta of the legendary firm I.M. Pei Partners.
To historic preservationists, the former church was a significant work of brutalist art. To others—including the church’s congregants—the building was a concrete eyesore. Thus, the church applied for a demolition permit in hopes of constructing a brighter, more welcoming church in its place. After a long (multi-decade) battle, the permit was granted. But unlike the average church, the new church space was to be integrated into a 9-story trophy office building. This created multiple design challenges, but our DAVIS team eagerly rose to the occasion.
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