HOME & DESIGN Magazine Late Fall 2013 | Page 20

editor’s message © GREG POWERS W Despite a classic exterior that melds with its Logan Circle neighborhood, Richard Loosle-Ortega’s bold renovation reveals thoroughly modern interiors. As these changes have taken shape, I’ve noticed that buttoned-up Washington has moved decidedly toward the modern end of the design spectrum. ashington, DC, is experiencing a renaissance of sorts. Once-derelict neighborhoods now attract luxury condominium developments, trendy bars and restaurants and art galleries. Real estate is booming as city dwellers upgrade their properties and suburbanites trade their houses and yards for carefree city living. As these changes have gradually taken shape, I’ve noticed that buttoned-up Washington has moved decidedly toward the modern end of the design spectrum. DC architect Richard Loosle-Ortega of KUBE Architecture agrees. “The new condo buildings going up all have modern interiors—loft-style, open-plan, lots of glass. That’s very different from 10 years ago,” says the architect who orchestrated the renovation of a Victorian-era Logan Circle row house featured in this special City Issue (page 116). The project exemplifies how today’s designers introduce new perspectives in the city without sacrificing its architectural legacy. “In historic areas such as Georgetown, Foggy Bottom, Logan Circle and Dupont, you can’t do much to the front elevations but you can do anything you want to the interiors,” Loosle-Ortega explains. “That’s where you see these historic row houses on the outside and then you open the door and—wow—it’s 2013 inside.” This special issue celebrates city living of all styles—including an edgy 14th Street loft by Ernesto Santalla (on our cover and page 82), a stunning Massachusetts Heights retreat overlooking Rock Creek Park (page 68), a Watergate pied-à-terre by Kelley Proxmire (page 104), a Minimalist Georgetown penthouse by Christy Schlesinger (page 96) and a glamorous family home by Lori Graham (page 90). We also take you on a private tour of Debra Lee’s DC home, where the CEO of BET Networks frequently hosts star-studded soirées. And we bring you the low-down on home-furnishings shops in the 14th Street Corridor—which will be home to the new Washington Design Center by next spring. There’s never been a more exciting time to witness the coming of age of design in Washington. As Richard LoosleOrtega observes, “There’s a dichotomy that’s being created in DC. You have the exterior fabric, but the interiors are a reflection of how we live today.” Sharon Jaffe Dan, Editor in Chief [email protected] 18 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013 • homeanddesign.com EdMess.indd 18 10/15/13 12:54 PM