Watergate South - Private Residence

by Ponte Mellor Architects

Ponte Mellor Architects provided architectural and interior design services for the complete renovation of a 2,850 sf apartment in the Watergate South Building. The apartment, originally two separate units, had been awkwardly combined and did not support a modern lifestyle. Using timeless design principles and sophisticated materials, PMA created an elegant space worthy of this historic landmark.

Working within the constraints of the aging building’s mechanical and electrical infrastructure presented numerous challenges. When an electrical chase and panel could not be relocated from a wall in the original galley kitchen, the architect responded by using this wall to anchor the new kitchen’s showpiece – an inimitable island topped in stunning Statuary Marble. The island cabinets are custom made from exotic Macassar Ebony.

This wood, with its unique striping and bold tones, is used throughout the interior to provide warmth and drama. Pre-engineered cherry floors custom stained on site complement the richness of this multi-toned wood. The majority of the other finishes were kept monochromatic but were sculpted to serve as a backdrop for the owner’s art collection and the magnificent views of the Potomac River and Kennedy Center. This project was built by Edgemoor Custom Builders with Ponte Mellor Architects providing construction management services.