Meridian Manor

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Meridian Manor is a significant example of the speculative middle-class apartment buildings that were constructed in the 1910s and 1920s along the 14th Street streetcar line. Noted architect George T. Santmyers' design is characteristic of the architecture and development in this area by developers who attempted to capitalize on the proximity to the streetcar line, as well as the demand for solid, modestly appointed middle-class apartment buildings. Designed between 1926 and 1927, Meridian Manor was constructed by the prominent building firm Biron & Son.

As an example of the conventional mid-rise apartment form, Meridian Manor reflects the acceptance of middle-class apartment buildings in Washington during the 1910s and 1920s and the success of moderate apartments developed along the upper 14th Street corridor during this period. Apartment design and planning were undergoing important innovations in the late 1910s and early 1920s in response to the pressing need for housing due to the city's rapidly expanding population. Developers saw the need to offer modestly appointed apartments that appealed to Washington's expanding middle-class population. The apartments of the upper 14th Street corridor were developed and promoted as solidly constructed apartments with the convenience of streetcar accessibility to downtown.

DC Inventory: September 26, 2001
National Register: March 29, 2001