DC's Cotton Annex Building: From Past to Present

Since 1936

Constructed between 1936 and 1937, the stately Cotton Annex building was originally built for the United States Department of Agriculture's Cotton Division. It's an important architectural and historical landmark in Washington, D.C., reflective of the era's federal building trends and the USDA’s role in agricultural research.

Tied to its vital role in shaping the standards of the U.S. cotton industry during its prime, the Cotton Annex was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places on October 5, 2015.

The "Stripped Classical" Style

Designed by Louis A. Simon, the Supervising Architect of the Treasury, the building features a restrained, classical form with minimal ornamentation. Its walls are constructed from buff-colored brick, and the structure has a flat roof with limestone coping. The building’s facade was intentionally left unadorned, particularly on its southern side, as it was originally intended to be part of a larger expansion that never occurred. The tall parapet along the west and north elevations adds to its monumental yet reserved appearance.

The USDA Cotton Annex is a prominent example of Stripped Classicism, a style that emerged in the 1930s and was commonly used in government buildings in the United States. Stripped Classicism, sometimes referred to as "PWA Modern" due to its association with Public Works Administration projects, merges classical proportions and symmetry with a simplified, modern aesthetic. In keeping with the stripped-back aesthetic of the architectural style, the Cotton Annex does not feature the kind of sculptural decoration commonly found in earlier classical designs.

The USDA Division of Cotton

The USDA Cotton Annex was once the nerve center of the Cotton Division, playing a big part in keeping U.S. cotton at the top of its game. Its main job was to handle the classification and standardization of cotton, ensuring that cotton quality was consistent across the country and up to par in international trade. These classifications were essential because cotton had to be graded on important qualities like fiber length and strength, which influenced its market value. The building became a key player in maintaining America’s global reputation for high-quality cotton.

One of the more interesting aspects of the Cotton Annex’s story is how it adapted to the evolving needs of cotton research. Skylights facing north were added to the building, allowing natural light to flood in and help inspectors better examine and grade the cotton. Northern light is considered the best kind for visual tasks like this, as it doesn’t create harsh shadows. This helped ensure accurate grading, giving the U.S. an edge in cotton production.

Later Years

By the 1960s, parts of the Cotton Division began moving out, with the Standards Section heading to Memphis in 1964. By the early 1980s, the USDA had completely vacated the building. However, it didn’t stay empty. The USDA continued to use it for general administrative functions. Other agencies like the Federal Protective Service, also used the space for vehicle inspections and other purposes.

By the early 2000s, the USDA had started to phase out its use of the building, and by 2007, the department had fully moved out. After that, the historic building sat mostly unused for a decade, until it was sold in 2017 for redevelopment.

A New Era

Approved by the Commission of Fine Arts and the State Historic Preservation office, the redevelopment of the Cotton Annex represents a major adaptive reuse project aimed at transforming a historic government structure into a vibrant residential community.

The existing seven-story structure, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is being restored while a new 13-story tower is being added. This blend of old and new is central to the design philosophy, with developers focusing on maintaining the original architectural character of the building while offering the comprehensive amenities expected in high-end urban developments.

Just a few of the unique historical elements retained include apartments with large historic windows and the original '30s hardware, a light-filled orangery room, and a stylish speakeasy with the original skylights still in place, named 'The Vault' after presidential seal discovered on a door in the building.

Developers have taken special care to address the challenges of integrating a new high-rise with a historic structure in terms of structural integrity and aesthetics. This includes using modern metal framing and cladding solutions to ensure that the new construction is both durable and visually compatible with the original building.

Other standout features include an infinity pool, fitness areas, and coworking spaces, as well as a central courtyard and garden spaces to provide a more open and communal feel within the urban setting. Retail spaces on the ground floor further enhance the development’s mixed-use nature, contributing to the neighborhood’s revitalization. Planned by renowned interior design studio Champalimaud, interiors place an emphasis on inspired and eclectic design with a nod to art deco ambiance, from gilded accents to dreamy velvety seating.

Revitalizing Southwest Federal Center

The Cotton Annex redevelopment is part of a broader trend in Southwest DC, shifting the area from primarily government office space to more residential and mixed-use developments. The building's location near transportation hubs, employment centers, and cultural landmarks—not to mention incredible views of the Washington Monument and other landmarks—makes it a highly desirable place to live. Revitalizing unused buildings in this historically government-heavy area will help create a more balanced and active neighborhood—a true "live where you work" environment.

Discover Annex on 12th

Blending 1930s architecture with modern convenience, new luxury apartments at Annex on 12th are an opportunity to live in an incredible historic building near some of Washington D.C.'s most iconic landmarks and attractions. Enjoy huge windows and epic views; truly superb amenities that go above and beyond; and refined interiors that add beauty, charm, and whimsy to the everyday. Contact us today to learn more. We can't wait to show you around.