Minimalist Bliss

Property Watch: Industrial Chic on Capitol Hill

Warehouse aesthetics meet a stacked parking system and walnut built-ins.

By Haley Shapley March 15, 2023

Loft living takes on a decidedly industrial feel in this open-plan condo set inside a seven-story box of glass and steel.

The building’s modernist design earned architecture firm Miller Hull Partnership a slew of awards when it was constructed in the early 2000s. With a footprint of just 40 by 80 feet, the building manages to make a big impact with its transparency, indoor/outdoor living, and avant-garde features, such as steel seismic crossbracing that adds instead of detracts. Many of the eight units in the close-knit community are still owned by their original occupants.

Sustainability, too, was a consideration in the design process. Some of the environmentally friendly features include a stacked parking system using European hydraulic lifts, natural ventilation, and common gas-fired hot water and hydronic heating systems.

The main living area provides the flexibility to tailor the layout in a way that works for the occupant. Above, the ceiling is lined with exposed steel decking, and below, the floors are covered in scored concrete. While they might look cold, they’re powered by radiant heating, which makes the condo quite cozy.

In the space designated as a dining area, a glass-and-aluminum-frame garage door rolls up, creating an open-air environment—especially welcome in the summer months. The windows look out onto the bustling East Union Street below.

The kitchen keeps the industrial vibe going, feeling more akin to a restaurant kitchen than a residential one. The sink, stove, hood, and dishwasher all resemble what you might find behind the scenes at your local eatery. The modular metal appliances are accented by butcher-block countertops.

Walnut built-ins lining the hallway provide storage space and two ample workstations, perfect for those fully invested in a WFH existence. Continuing down the hallway, there’s space for a bedroom, with built-in walnut armoires, and beyond that, a sitting area with French doors that open to a small deck.

The bathroom is the only part of the condo that’s fully enclosed. It includes a soaking tub, and—surprise—industrial lighting fixtures. A stackable washer/dryer sits in a closet right outside the bathroom.

The unit also comes with access to the rooftop deck, where there are 360-degree views of the city. One parking spot is included.

Listing Fast Facts

1310 E Union St, Unit 301
Size: 1,123 square feet, 1 bedroom/1 bath
List Date: 2/23/2023
List Price: $995,000, $904/mo HOA
Listing Agent: David Campbell, Northwest Premium Homes

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