Brookland is welcoming a new addition to the neighborhood. Construction has begun for the mixed-use building located at the corner of Northeast DC’s Monroe and 7th Street. Henry Adams contributed to the development of the new building by providing the MEP Engineering design including HVAC, building controls, plumbing, power, lighting, fire alarm, and communications. The multi-family development will include 162 residential units, 47,000 GSF of parking, and 18,000 SF of retail shell space. Anticipation regarding what amenities will occupy the retail space is buzzing throughout the community.

The opening of the first four multi-family buildings in 2013 was a catalyst for the addition of new developments within the Brookland neighborhood. Eateries including Busboys and Poets, BGR Burgers, &Pizza, Brookland Pint, Fox Loves Taco, and more are located along the strip, just steps away from the comforts of luxury apartment living. The area has become popular for art enthusiasts due to the Arts Walk that features numerous local artist studios and farmers market held on Saturdays.

Many community residents have voiced their desire for a neighborhood grocer to fill the ground-floor retail space. Given the size of the space, it was determined that the base building design will support the needs of a smaller grocer. Henry Adams has coordinated with the developer to provide MEP engineering systems for an actual fit-out that will be specific to Aldi or similar tenant. The remaining retail space will be designed to provide flexibility for different tenant types including restaurants, etc.  Shell space will be provided with temporary heat and sprinklers as required.

With Catholic University being located right across the street, there is a high demand from students looking for comfort and convenience. Many of the apartments for this project are leased by students, however there is a surge in young professionals looking for more affordable living, plenty of amenities, convenient location, and access to transportation. Some units within the residential living spaces will feature higher end units with luxury finishes in order to target young professionals.

The new building will be cohesive with the rest of the Monroe Street development, yet will still have its own unique style. With the completion of the final phase, the building will include a fitness center, business facility, a clubroom, several fountains, and a rooftop deck with views of the Basilica of the National Shrine. Many of these amenity spaces have significant ventilation/outdoor air code requirements that were taken into consideration during Henry Adams’ MEP engineering design process. Each amenity/common area HVAC system, including the garage exhaust systems and dedicated outdoor air systems, were commissioned in accordance with DC Energy Code requirements.