THE CHARLES
PROJECT DETAILS
The Charles is a 25-story mixed-use residential tower requiring extensive coordination across below-grade parking, podium, and tower levels.
As a junior architectural designer, I supported Design Development and Construction Documentation by coordinating unit layouts, producing life-safety and natural ventilation studies, and assisting with MEP conflict resolution. My work contributed to maintaining code compliance and system clarity across a large, vertically complex building.
AREA | 388,145 ft2 |
CLIENT | Greystar |
STATUS | Complete 2026 |
TOOLS | Revit | Bluebeam |
ARCHITECT | SK+I Architecture |
BELOW GRADE
A constrained footprint required a deep below-grade parking structure accommodating multiple parking levels, a four-elevator core, two egress stairs, and tenant storage.
BASE
Shaped by site constraints, the base anchors the tower above and houses key amenity spaces, including a fitness center, leasing office, and mail room.
TOWER
The tower rises along the Bethesda skyline, with shifting geometry and framed glazing activating the façade. Residences from the 2nd to 25th floors benefit from expansive, well-oriented views.
CROWN
The crown contains interior and rooftop amenities, including a speakeasy, lounge, dining and screening rooms, and an outdoor pool and landscaped courtyard framed by the building’s angled façade.
STUDIES & EXERCISES
SMOKE REMOVAL DIAGRAM
Conducted smoke-removal studies to verify operable window area and placement for post-fire smoke evacuation in compliance with Montgomery County code.
NATURAL VENTILATION STUDY
Developed natural ventilation diagrams calculating livable area and required operable window square footage to confirm residential code compliance.
MEP CONFLICT ANALYSIS | UNIT
Reviewed MEP coordination within residential units, resolving conflicts between ductwork, plumbing, and electrical systems while maintaining head heights and code compliance.
MEP CONFLICT ANALYSIS | AMENITY
Analyzed MEP systems in first-floor amenity spaces, identifying conflicts between mechanical runs, piping, and structural elements.
