A good restoration is a good investment.
When one thinks of Georgetown, two images most often come to mind—rows of elegant townhouses on quiet streets and shopping. Many Georgetown storefronts, especially on M Street and Wisconsin Avenue have been restored or rehabilitated, and new construction in Caddy’s Alley reflects the historic fabric of Georgetown’s business district. Historically, storefronts were meant be to as transparent as possible to provide a clear view from the street of merchandise and services. Urban storefronts from the late 19th to early 20th centuries featured large plate glass display windows either flush with the face of the building or in projecting bays, crowned with a row of transom windows. Window bays supported a flat roof, with its weight supported by …
Since the 2007 fire, the Georgetown Neighborhood Library has sat lonely on its hill at R St. On Oct. 5 the neighborhood gem once again was filled by community members, marveling at the building's transformation.
Excitement coursed through the Georgetown Neighborhood Library on Tuesday night, as donors gathered to tour the resurrected monument. The building will reopen to the public on Oct. 18 with $16 million in renovations after the 2007 fire. Few will forget April 30, 2007, when flames engulfed much of the landmark, destroying dozens of community artifacts and gutting a treasured piece of Georgetown history. Project architect James G. Reigle, from Washington-based architectural firm Martinez and Johnso, led a tour through the building. Reigle was excited by results thus far, but insisted that "It's not quite there. There's a lot to do to get ready for the opening … a lot to fix up." Even in its unfinished state, with many empty shelves and …
38.91368
-77.06571
3260 R St NW, Washington, DC
/articles/neighborhood-library-fetted
/locations/2147136
Shaun Courtney
5:58 pm on Thursday, October 7, 2010
Great point Laura. I am hoping for a behind-the-scenes tour next week, I'll mention your comment then! more ›