The conversion of a halfway house into a condo building at 1514 8th Street NW is progressing. Interior demolition is finished and construction is starting on the nine-unit building, according to Megan Schlabaugh of Lock 7, the developer.
Lock 7 expects the project to be ready in late 2015, she says.
Schlabaugh says the building will remain three stories high with a cellar. The brick façade will remain intact and will feature large windows and walkout patios.
A mezzanine level will be added on top of the third floor for two duplex penthouses with outdoor patio space. Of the nine condos, there will be seven two-bedroom and two one-bedroom condos. There are no units set aside as affordable.
Schlabaugh said the building, which was designed by Square 134 Architects does not yet have a name and prices haven’t been determined. Three parking spaces are located behind the building.
The building dates to 1956. The Efforts For Ex-Convicts Foundation operated the 40-bed halfway house for 35 years before closing it in 2014. City records show that Lock 7 purchased the building in late 2014, through an LLC, for slightly over $1 million.
Lock 7’s project required variances relating to lot area and occupancy and to parking. The District Board of Zoning Adjustment approved the variances last November.
Schlabaugh says the building is located on a quiet block within walking distance of downtown and U Street, and two blocks from the Metro.
“We are excited to be part of the recent activity in Shaw. This historic neighborhood has seen an influx of local businesses, new dining and entertainment opportunities and real estate development,” she says.