J•Linea

The redevelopment of a former LGBTQ nightclub, J•Linea is a new 70-foot-tall, 132-unit mixed-use multifamily community bringing heart, soul, and 24/7 activity to Washington, DC’s booming Shaw neighborhood.

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Formerly known as Black Broadway, Shaw has long since been viewed as the city’s cultural epicenter and served as inspiration for many of the project’s signature design elements including its dancing geometric floorplan and cascading gold fin series, reminiscent of notes on sheet music.

The unique angularity of J•Linea’s façade was a direct result of the decision to preserve and incorporate part of the original century-old façade, designed by one of the city’s first Black architects. Made from artisan Danish-imported brick, the new structure steps back and inward in deference to the existing façade, maximizing the building’s usable square footage and ensuring each unit has access to natural light.

Gold fins, composite metal panels and a three-dimensional UHPC rainscreen call attention to the building along a narrow side street and contrast its otherwise industrial design while a two-story lobby wrapped in glazing activates the streetscape, connecting activity between V Street and Florida Avenue.

Units span across seven floors and range from studios to one and two-bedroom with den options, lofts, and eight penthouse units with 180-degree city views. Extensive millwork creates a seamless experience with fully integrated walk-in closets, built-in desks, and full-size in-unit washers and dryers. The angular language of the building designed to address the site’s problematic depth also ensures each unit has access to natural light. Approximately 75% of units offer access to private outdoor space, a rare feature in the neighborhood.

Given its boutique nature, the amenity package provides substantial third-place options to residents in more modest-sized units. Residents enjoy access to a fitness center, lounge spaces, and co-working booths in addition to an expansive penthouse clubroom with a demonstration kitchen, entertainment lounge, and an outdoor terrace with 180-degree views of the city’s monumental core.