BATTER UP
17 Aug 2016
A new mixed-used development emerging in Washington DC seeks to take advantage of its location to integrate with the neighbouring baseball stadium to create a vibrant public presence.
ODA New York has revealed plans for West Half, a new mixed-use development located steps from Nationals Park baseball stadium in Washington, DC’s emerging capitol riverfront neighborhood. The 456,000 square foot (42,364sqm) scheme from ODA seeks to connect residents to the surrounding community, while serving as a visual counterpoint to the neighboring sports landmark.
Developed by JBG, ODA’s 11-storey design gradually cants as it ascends, echoing the existing gradient of Nationals Park, and establishing a graceful transition between the street, structure, and stadium. This architectural gesture permits stadium views from throughout the complex, with 50% of units boasting outdoor terraces with direct views of the field. The mixed-use complex features 61,000 square feet (5667sqm) of retail space spread between two storeys, encouraging a vibrant public presence.
At the uppermost level, a rooftop pool provides respite on warm summer days, while a shaded courtyard situated below cantilevered balconies lines the inside of the building’s U-shaped footprint. Firmly positioned in the sightline of Nationals Park, it is estimated that West Half will be televised to more than 50 million people each year during the major league baseball season. The building is slated for a July 2018 opening date.