Metropole 708

Text by Nate Berg

Located near Washington, D.C.’s Logan Circle, this two-story corner penthouse has some enviable views of the scenic city. For his interior build-out of the private residence, D.C.-based architect Robert M. Gurney sought to emphasize those views, both from inside and from the penthouse’s rooftop terraces.

Inside, the design is oriented around the double-height living room and its corner window walls, which offer a look at the Washington Monument in the distance. The space is open and flexible, with only a suspended fireplace anchoring the room. Color-changing light fixtures and brightly colored stained glass doors to the study animate the space.

Above, a glass walkway cantilevers out over the living room, providing yet another unique vantage point. It connects directly into the second-story bedroom, which can take in views through the window walls, or block out light by closing a hidden pocket door. The bedroom has access to one of two private rooftop terraces; the other is accessible from the penthouse’s common spaces by a cleverly sited set of stairs. It becomes a second living room for the home, and has views that are equally impressive as the ones inside.

“This one jumped out because it’s fun, but also controlled. It’s a unique and playful interior in an otherwise straightforward building.”
— Juror Janet Bloomberg

Architect: Robert M. Gurney, FAIA, Architect Builder: Brook Rose
Size: 2,500 square feet
Cost: Withheld