BLVD Ansel

Nominated by: Hartman Design Group
Location: Rockville, MD
Developer: Torti Gallas and Partners
Architect: Duball LLC
General Contractor: Paradigm
Interior Designer: Hartman Design Group
Project Website: blvdansel.com

Project Statement

Located one block from the Metro in Rockville Town Center, BLVD Ansel completes the town center landscape. Surrounded by offices, restaurants and shops, this walkable community has a neighborhood vibe. Designed to be an urban oasis, BLVD Ansel is named after the photographer Ansel Adams, an environmentalist who used his photography to promote conservation of wilderness areas.

This development represents a public-private partnership with the city of Rockville, Md. Adjoining BLVD Ansel (a market-rate, multi-generational apartment) is a non-profit, senior, affordable apartment owned by Montgomery County and built to serve the needs of the 65+ community. The two properties are connected at the garage level.

Melding with the surrounding buildings, BLVD Ansel replaces a dilapidated hardscape parking lot and has transformed town center. Conceived to provide a haven for residents living in this urban setting, the fenestration was oriented to provide views from the upper stories that extend to Sugarloaf Mountain, 25 miles away.

Paying tribute to environmental protection and the health benefits evident when connected to our natural surroundings, the interior design embraces biophilic principals. Featuring natural materials that reflect the colors and textures of nature, the interior and exterior are blurred. Curated art creates a subtle theme referencing the camera as Ansel Adams’ tool of expression. Intending to create an interactive environment that encourages collaborative work, social gatherings, and a sense of wellbeing, the interiors team scattered flexible spaces for work and play throughout the property.

Amenities include a work lounge with individual “Zoom” rooms, and a 12-foot communal table and multiple open work pods. The expansive club/game room connect to the roof deck with a monumental staircase. A state-of-the art fitness center/yoga/spin rooms overlook the pool and terrace. The success of this project is evidenced in the resident happiness and strong lease-up pace.