A Modern Rooftop Retreat atop a 1910 Wardman Landmark

The Northumberland, U Street Corridor, Washington, DC

Developer: The Northumberland HOA
Landscape Architect: Bell Design, Inc.
General Contractor: Ruff Roofing
Consultant: Struxure

Set within Washington, DC’s historic U Street Corridor, this 1910 Classical Revival building, developed by noted real‑estate pioneer Henry Wardman and designed by architect Alfred Beers, stands as one of the neighborhood’s most distinguished early apartment houses. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1980, the building retains its original masonry detailing, symmetrical façade, and commanding street presence.

The condominium board engaged Bell Design to transform the building’s hot, underutilized rooftop, a 12,000‑square‑foot expanse with sweeping views south and west, into a modern, low‑maintenance amenity space with capacity for future expansion. Because of the building’s historic designation, the project required careful coordination with the DC Historic Preservation Office to ensure that all new rooftop structures remained invisible from the street and did not compromise the integrity of the landmark façade.

Working closely with Struxture, Inc., we designed a contemporary pergola system featuring automatic louvers, integrated lighting, and concealed ceiling fans. The result is a streamlined architectural element that provides shade, comfort, and flexibility while maintaining a crisp, modern profile appropriate to the skyline.

To support the new structure without impacting the existing roof membrane, Bell Design collaborated with structural engineers to develop a floating steel platform that transfers loads directly into the building’s masonry walls. The system was engineered to withstand potential gale‑force winds, ensuring long‑term durability and safety in an exposed rooftop environment.

Phase 1, shown in the photographs, establishes the core amenity zone beneath the new pergola. Our master plan envisions additional phases, including a rooftop dog park, outdoor kitchen, and expanded seating and gathering areas—transforming the full rooftop into a multi‑functional retreat for residents while honoring the building’s historic character.

This project exemplifies Bell Design’s approach: respecting the past, embracing contemporary living, and orchestrating complex technical and preservation requirements into a cohesive, elegant design.