Washington’s built environment is the product of grand ambitions, fierce debates, and brilliant (and sometimes terrible) ideas across more than two centuries. These posts dig into the buildings, architects, and design decisions that shaped the city we know today.
Remember this super ugly Giant on Wisconsin Ave. near the Cathedral? It’s soon going to be the new Cathedral Commons! This old photo was taken in the summer of 1942.
Discover the history of the York Theatre, located in Petworth, Washington DC. Opened in 1919, explore photos from the theater, including an awesome old photo from Flickr. Learn more!
Early in the 19th century, there was a proposal to build a national university at the west end of the Mall, where the Lincoln Memorial now sits.
Take a look at this beautiful 1940s DC rowhouse. Do you know where it could be located? Could it be in Dupont or Columbia Heights?
The Windom House at Scott Circle was home to a Treasury Secretary who died mid-speech in 1891. The Queen Anne mansion was razed in 1964 and is now the site of the Australian Embassy.
Take a look back in time with this 1928 Woodley Park advertisement from The Washington Post. Learn more about the Wardman homes and the area’s history in this nostalgic piece.
Take a look at the ornate 2101 Connecticut Ave. NW apartment building in Washington, DC. This beautiful building was advertised in The Washington Post in 1928 and still stands today.
Take a look back at the history of The Dresden at 2126 Connecticut Ave. NW, from its 1975 condominium advertisement to the obituary of Princess Cantacuzene to a 1948 rent hike. Learn more about this grande dame of Washington!
Discover the history of a neighborhood landmark: the Brookland Bowling Alley. Learn how it was saved and see a picture of the alley today!
