Collaborative effort with renowned design firm Perkins Eastman and ForrestPerkins sets new standards in hospitality-driven office design
Carr Properties (“Carr”), a leading owner, operator, and developer of premier commercial office and residential properties, announced the building repositioning of 1875 K Street, NW. 1875 K is a 12-story, 190,000 square foot Class A office building located in the heart of Washington, D.C.’s Central Business District, at the corner of 19th and K Streets.
Collaborating with the hospitality design firm ForrestPerkins, a distinct design studio of global architecture firm Perkins Eastman, the significant repositioning of the building will elevate the customer experience to be on par with a luxury hotel. The comprehensive repositioning involves a full lobby renovation including installation of a new coffee bar, fitness center enhancements, and the addition of a third-floor conference center and lounge that can accommodate up to 100 people. All spaces will be infused with Carr’s signature Carr Experience approach and distinctive culture of hospitality.
The design narrative and programming at 1875 K focuses on creating intimate, hotel-style spaces that offer an elegant but relaxed environment. The lobby will feature warm, luxurious finishes and comfortable seating areas. The new arrangement focuses on fostering hospitable interactions, with a strategically positioned reception desk inviting staff, customers, and guests to freely engage with each other. The integrated coffee bar will further elevate the customer experience.
A new series of arched portals in the lobby will lead to the reception desk, with wood vignettes strategically placed to draw the eye beyond the space. With the addition of quartzite tiles and live plantings that connect the interior with the exterior, the design harmoniously incorporates existing window placements and stone selections while retaining the framework of the original stairs, wood portals, and ceiling height. The addition of wood flooring creates a warmer, more inviting, residential feel, while carefully selected furniture encourages gathering, working, and collaborating.
The addition of a new, third-floor conference center introduces two flexible, state-of-the-art meeting spaces, seating approximately 100 people, along with space for breakout sessions in the lounge and solo work in private work pods. The new conference center will be one of the best in the city. The fitness center, as well as the building’s corridors, public restrooms, and elevator lobbies, will also be renovated to the Carr standard and will include new finishes and artwork.
The design approach at 1875 K respects the original architecture while integrating new materials to create a unique, timeless aesthetic, evident throughout the building. The use of natural materials such as wood and stone create an approachable, simple elegance within the building.
“At the heart of repositioning 1875 K lies a commitment to creating exceptional office spaces that elevate beyond the standard,” said Oliver Carr III, CEO of Carr Properties. “Our collaboration with ForrestPerkins reflects our dedication to delivering an exceptional experience for our customers. When we acquired the property in 2017, we recognized its prime location and building features. Now, as we infuse Carr’s hospitality-first approach into the design, we are proud to elevate this Class A asset to what we deem a ‘Premium Plus’ offering.”
Carr’s repositioning strategy for 1875 K, and the strategy for its future investments, is guided by where market demand is shifting—to high-quality, trophy properties or what Carr describes as “Premium Plus” assets. “Premium Plus” refers to a new asset class Carr has identified, which defines the properties that fall between the commodity Class A market and the brand-new, trophy inventory. By layering in The Carr Experience—thoughtfully designed amenities, engaging moments, and their service philosophy known as Distinguished Hospitality—Carr intends to continue to invest in prominent Class A office properties in coveted locations to further build this Premium Plus category.
“Collaborating with Carr on the redesign of 1875 K has been an exciting journey, allowing us to push the boundaries of office design to create a space that truly feels like a second home,” said Jennifer Beggiato, associate principal at ForrestPerkins. “Our goal is to blend functionality with hospitality, so every detail—from the welcoming lobby to the state-of-the-art amenity spaces—will enhance the overall experience for tenants. This project sets a new standard for what a modern, premium office building can provide.”
Carr anticipates renovations at 1875 K to be completed by January 2025.