1459 Columbia Road NW

This project transforms a vacant church property into an 87-unit affordable multifamily community that blends preservation with contemporary living. The design retains the defining elements of the 1904 church, including its iconic bell tower, while replacing the 1914 addition with a complementary yet modern residential building. The original sanctuary will be adaptively reused for residential and amenity spaces, preserving its historic fabric and visual presence along the street. The new addition is set back and articulated with vertical bays and recessed balconies, creating a respectful dialogue between old and new.

At street level, landscaped front yards and a clearly defined lobby enhance pedestrian engagement and reinforce a human-scaled streetscape. Upper levels offer generous windows and outdoor spaces to maximize light, views, and livability.

Overall, the design balances preservation, density, and contextual fit, transforming an underutilized site into a valued residential asset while maintaining its role within the neighborhood.

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