The Wren

The Wren is a mixed-use residential building located in the historic, formerly industrial Washington, DC Shaw District to the south and at the gateway to Howard University to the north. A 46,000-SF Whole Foods market anchors the ground floor, supported by below-grade parking that also serves the residences on upper levels. The U-shaped building features a central landscaped courtyard with residential amenities, including a bridge across the courtyard between the building’s wings that serves as a lounge and informal social space with views of the Washington Monument and the U.S. Capitol. Additional amenities at the penthouse level include a swimming pool, community garden, and an area where residents can walk their dogs.    

The architectural character bridges the historic context of steel-frame and masonry industrial buildings and current expectations of a more contemporary approach. The three-story frame and masonry materials reflect the scale and texture of older buildings in the adjoining blocks, whereas the prismatic glass bays provide a more dynamic character that distinguishes the development in the marketplace.