Consider the Cathedral Mansions, a landmark apartment community with a story stretching back over 90 years. Constructed from 1922 to 1924, the Cathedral Mansions were designed by Harry Wardman and architect Mihran Mesrobian. Wardman was one of DC’s most prolific builders.
Originally named “Five Courts Mansions,” this complex of three buildings totaled 492 units. The Cathedral Mansions were once considered the largest U.S. apartment community south of New York City. The success of Cathedral Mansions influenced many large apartment complexes in Washington, DC, during the late 1920s and 1930s.
The Cathedral Mansions complex consists of buildings at 2900, 3000, and 3100 Connecticut Avenue NW. These historic structures stand in the Woodley Park neighborhood. Eugene Waggaman designed the Connecticut Avenue apartment buildings in the Classical Revival style. Mesrobian’s initials are visible on a drawing for one of the buildings.
In 1994, South Cathedral Mansions was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This was because of its association with early 20th-century events in Washington, DC. It was also due to its distinctive artistic characteristics. The Cathedral Mansions are also listed in the DC Inventory of Historic Sites since 1989.
Cathedral Mansions Center, the last of the buildings to be completed in 1924, cost $1.25 million. It stands between its sister buildings to the North and South. Its design is uniform and simple. Today, it is the only one of the original buildings with a commercial area, established in 1925.
Originally called the Jewett Mansions, it was named after the old road that is now the entrance to the National Zoo.
In 1964, Cathedral Mansions Center was sold to real estate developer Norman Bernstein. His company still owns the building. The apartments and storefronts were renovated. Some apartments were converted into office spaces. Passersby might miss the entirety of the building while visiting the shops and National Zoo.
South Cathedral Mansions underwent a major renovation starting in June 2014. The goal was to maintain the historic building’s aspects. This included the brick façade, casement windows, and marble staircases. The renovation also aimed to provide modern, luxurious designs and high-end amenities. These include a fitness center, sauna, outdoor pool, and a dog park. Renovations were completed in 2017.
The story of the Cathedral Mansions is one of architectural vision and adaptation. These buildings stand as a testament to Washington, DC’s evolving landscape. From its grand beginnings to its modern amenities, Cathedral Mansions remains a significant landmark.