Joule Penthouse Renovation
WHA is the architect of the Joule Condo building - located in the walkable neighborhood 2 blocks from the Virginia Square metro - an opportunity arose to renovate the building's penthouse unit with the original developer of the building.
There are several concepts which emerged:
1. Using a variation of whites the unit creates a neutral frame which emphasizes the 180 degree view from the unit including a wooded foreground, the Washington Monument and the R-B Corridor.
2. Using the whites - including furniture - the space acts like a canvas – somewhat like the Rauschenberg white paintings - reflecting the subtle variations of light (Hue, Intensity, sharpness) and shadows hour by hour, day by day, month by month and season by season.
3. The variations in whites also provides a very calm and serene dwelling environment which becomes an antidote for the stress and anxiety in today’s fast paced society. In addition the view above the wooded foreground provides a tranquil long view which is calm and healing.
4. The extension of the same tile through the balcony visually expands the dwelling space to the curved edge of the terrace in both night and day.
5. Research shows that housing in a walkable and green location is healing - reducing illnesses and increasing longevity.
