The Four Seasons Private Residences is a fusion of history, high-end real estate, and high performance. Originally a coal yard, the site is being transformed into a luxury residential development with a one-acre public park.
The west side of the historic masonry façade will be preserved and was stabilized with a temporary steel framework during construction. This architectural decision is a bridge between the modern West End and the Federal-style charm of Georgetown.
SWA joined the project team during construction to support compliance under the 2017 DC Energy Code and optimize building performance. Our mechanical systems and envelope commissioning services have been instrumental in helping the project team meet stringent energy code requirements for airtightness and system performance. Our expertise safeguards long-term operational efficiency in a high-value luxury development.
The Four Seasons Private Residences exceeds typical standards for new construction with its advanced systems, including water-cooled variable refrigerant flow (VRF), energy recovery ventilation, and individual air-water heat pumps for hot water. These require precise commissioning to deliver on their efficiency potential.
SWA is proud to contribute to a development that is prioritizing sustainability and performance while reinvigorating a historic site.
Project Team
Owners & Developers: The Georgetown Company, The Levy Group Ltd.
Development Partner: Mohari Hospitality
Architects: SLCE Architects, Adjaye Associates
Structural Engineering: Robert Silman Associates
MEP Engineer: Cosentini Associates
Construction Manager/General Contractor: Walsh Construction
Building Details
Luxury residential development with high-end finishes and amenities (e.g., wine cellar)
Adaptive reuse of a site with a preserved historic façade; formerly a heating plant and coal yard
Compartmentalization Testing (unitized blower door testing)
Our Work
Code Expertise
In our earliest site assessments, our consultants quickly identified issues that could have jeopardized code compliance—particularly around compartmentalization and air barrier continuity. The project was not initially set up to pass the code-required unitized blower door testing, but SWA’s presence on-site will ensure that compliance is achieved and costly rework is avoided.
Proactive Solutions
SWA stepped in to consult on key adjustments during construction, including perimeter drywall alignment and continuous air barrier strategies. These recommendations are being implemented floor by floor, with SWA conducting walkthroughs to verify progress and prepare for final testing phases. Our guidance helped the project team adapt their construction practices in real time and ensure that each residential unit is properly sealed.
Risk Reduction
Our involvement not only reduces the risk of failed inspections and costly delays, but also ensures that the building’s advanced systems perform as designed. Because compartmentalization testing is an end-of-construction requirement, early intervention is critical; without it, developers risk having to open finished walls to correct issues. SWA is also supporting the developers’ goals for quality and reliability expected in the luxury market.
