Bitarchitects changed this townhouse from a single-family home into a modern building with three separate flats: Units A, B, and C. To achieve this, the team redesigned the building in the RA-2 zone to meet the rules for three homes. In addition, the design addressed density, lot occupancy, and building codes. As a result, the building could support its new use as a multi-family home.

First, Bitarchitects planned and coordinated fire-rated walls and floors between the three units to improve fire safety. More specifically, these features provided the required fire protection between floors and between units. As a result, each flat had its own space, clear exit routes, and fire barriers. Furthermore, these features helped the building meet the rules for multi-family homes in the RA-2 zone. In this way, the design supported both fire safety and code compliance.

Along with these changes, Bitarchitects updated the building’s heating, cooling, and utility systems. To begin, the team added a new utility room to serve the upper floors. Next, the team installed a high-efficiency water heater on each floor. In addition, the team replaced the old boiler and baseboard heating system with a new HVAC system and ductwork. Meanwhile, compact compressors on the third-floor terrace helped control indoor temperatures while keeping the building’s exterior design intact. Together, these updates supported the needs of all three flats.

Through these improvements, Bitarchitects changed a single-family townhouse into three modern flats designed to meet building codes. By combining zoning review, fire safety planning, and building system design, the team supported the building’s new use as a multi-family home. Moreover, these updates improved how the building worked and used energy. At the same time, the team respected the rules and limits of the RA-2 zone.

Overall, Bitarchitects planned and coordinated the main design and system updates needed for the three flats. In addition, the team addressed fire safety, zoning rules, and modern building needs. As a result, the project brought together safe design and updated building systems. Ultimately, these changes helped create a multi-family home suited to modern living while supporting the requirements of the RA-2 zone.

Project Location:

Washington, DC

Project Type:
Residential: 1 Family House

Project Valuation:
1,072,639.00 USD

Built-Up Area:
2,632 SF

Construction Type:
Type III-B

Project Zoning:
RF-1

Number of Floors:
3 + Basement

Code:

2017 Washington DC Building Code