Friday, March 19, 2010

China in DC

There is a charming 1920s Chinese building in DC that always seems to draw my attention at L and 11th street.
Formerly the Chinese Community Church building, it now lies vacant and is ripe for development, don't you think? I wonder what the interior is like...
I love the turquoise and red color scheme and the iron light fixtures. And who can't help but notice the clay tile roof and brackets! The patina on the facade is charming, but I know people in the neighborhood think this wear is just a sign of neglect. I just worry that a developer will get ahold of the building and take away every last ounce of originality and charm!

8 comments:

charkstudios said...

I second that emotion! Just look at that building's soul just crying out for a restoration project! The original personality must be maintained.

pve design said...

I love that you worry about these buildings and the charm staying intact. I love the patina and the detail and of course that you like it too.
pve

The Down East Dilettante said...

Oh, that's wonderful...sort of art moderne Chinese, with red brick to give it context in the neighborhood (back from the days that people did things like make their buildings fit in)

ArchitectDesign™ said...

DED - sadly much of this neighborhood has already been lost due to the decline of the neighborhood after the 60s riots. Even more sad though is things are still being lost as it becomes a 'trendy' area. Developers tear down everything with character in sight!

custardbydesign said...

crying for a restoration...

Karena said...

The first thought I had was I wonder what it is like inside!! Then your comment Stefan!

Sally@DivineDistractions said...

This is when it would be really great to be a millionaire...I'd be rescuing that building for sure. I hate to see these gems deteriorating. Who knows....maybe I'll win the lottery.

Dee said...

Good one combine with Chinese art. I am chinese glad to see that