Denrike Building

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The Denrike Building was completed in 1926 and designed by local architect Appleton P. Clark, Jr. Although part of a collection of office buildings in the Financial Historic District, the building’s exterior stands out for its Tudor Gothic Revival style design. The eleven-story building, just north of McPherson Square, replaced an 1884 Victorian Era house that belonged, at one point, to the former House Speaker Joseph Cannon. Prior to the 1920s, McPherson Square was filled with multiple residences, but these were mostly demolished with the development of the financial district and the increase in office spaces.   

The Denrike Building, like many 20th century era office buildings, has a three-part design, including a base, middle, and top. The base of the building was converted into commercial storefronts, but the original limestone wall is still intact above the storefronts. The building’s middle is characterized by Tudor Gothic detailing, including vertical window bays separated by pilasters with Tudor arches and spandrels. The spandrels are also decorated with raised Tudor roses. The upper stories of the building are also decorated with intricate Tudor inspired stone carvings. The imposts and drip molds on the building are decorated with beast-like, human heads. Rectangular windows can be found on floors three through ten, but the upper floors' windows have arched openings with lintels carved with more roses.   

The building was primarily used as office space, but is currently being converted into medium term rental units. The new plans include 89 multifamily units, with a large retail space on the ground floor. This rehabilitation is in response to the recent vacancies of office spaces following the Covid-19 pandemic. This project will retain the historic Gothic Revival style exterior while continuing to provide for the changing needs of the public.

DC Inventory: June 23, 2016 
National Register: June 30, 2016 
Within the Financial Historic District