The Batley Amenity Space

Weaving the history of the neighborhood into every element of the design, The Batley transforms what was once a cash and carry warehouse into a 423-unit residence boasting a variety of amenity spaces unparalleled in the metro area.

Centralized public amenities are designed to make socializing with new neighbors comfortable and relaxing while also acting as quiet touch down areas for residents to work. Plush, multi-purpose lounge seating is found in all the entertainment areas, as well as a variety of multi-player games like shuffleboard, classic arcade machines, and a handmade Sudoku wall.

Expansive co-working spaces complete with white boards, private phone booths, artisanal coffee machines, and cozy reading nooks appeal to the teleworking community or residents seeking a quiet retreat to catch up on emails. A locally-fabricated copper tile backsplash, a strip of water vapor mimicking open flames, and custom artwork add to the curated experience.

Adjacent to the second-floor co-working lounge is a naturally-lit fitness center with floor-to-ceiling windows and a striking custom gold and black botanical mural by artist Vero Rivera. European imported exercise machines, a yoga room, and chilled eucalyptus towels featuring the residence’s monogram contribute to the luxury experience.

An expansive year-round rooftop deck provides stunning panoramic views of Union Market and historic downtown DC as residents enjoy access to a heated salt-water pool, community bar, modern grilling equipment, and al fresco dining with fresh herb planters at every corner– another subtle nod to the market design concept. A Nanawall increases access to natural sunlight in any season and creates a seamless indoor-outdoor experience with the interior lounge – which boasts several areas for study or work, additional seating intended for reading and relaxing, several entertainment areas with plasma screen TV’s, and a large kitchen and dining area with a built in wine cooler.

To capture the soul of the original warehouse, designer’s strategically salvaged pieces from the building before construction began, incorporating them into the amenity spaces of the new residential property – including file cabinets repurposed as custom works of art, and a cash and carry neon sign that was converted into a dining table for the rooftop. The use of local artisans to fabricate many of the custom furniture pieces within the residence was important to the authenticity of the design concept, and include a metal reception desk with backlit wooden panels and built in fridge and the copper backsplash in the co-working kitchen. Other intricate details – like magnified cowhide wallpaper, wheat-patterned wool carpets, and botanical murals – pay further homage to the neighborhood’s roots throughout the public spaces.

As an extension of Union Market, The Batley seeks to preserve the essence of the area’s character while embracing residents in a community filled with modern amenities that makes socializing with neighbors effortless and feeling at home easy.

Design: Hickok Cole
Contractor: John Moriarty & Associates
Photography: Garrett Rowland