South Cathedral Mansions

Our task was to evaluate, enhance, and restore the historic grounds of South
Cathedral Mansions to regain it's status as a premier residence in the city.

Moody Graham was engaged to document the historic landscape conditions, address the existing problems, and enhance the experience of this important 1924 Harry Wardmann designed building. The project required approval from the Historic Preservation Review Board and the Commission of Fine Arts.   

EXISTING PROBLEMS
- Deteriorating hardscape
- Drainage and erosion
- Inactive spaces
- Disconnect between landscapes

DESIGN RESPONSE
- Maintain and enhance park-like setting with next generation hardwood tree planting and additional opportunities to engage the landscape
-Provide stronger and more accessible connections betwee the building and landscape
- Enrich and define the entry procession with understory allee, finer texture plant selections, and landscape lighting
- Address drainage and erosion problems with proper grading, additional planting, and pedestrian buffers where appropriate
- Activate dead zones on the backside (NW) of the building with increased program and amenity space for tenants
- Connect the landscapes through material selections, plant selections, and moments of engagement

Photos by John Cole

Concept Design - Option 1

Concept Design  - Option 2

Concept Design  - Option 3

Type

Living

Project Team

Architect: Square 134, Civil: Bohler, Interiors: CORE

Landscape Contractors

Snead Construction Group 

Size

2.4 Acres
     

Time Span

Completed 2017

Location

Washington, DC (Woodley Park)

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