OZMA connects residents to greenspace through a variety of pocket parks that line the perimeter.
OZMA is a new through-block multifamily residential development located in Washington, DC’s burgeoning NoMA neighborhood. The design flips the traditional DC interior courtyard by placing the greenspace on the outside of the building perimeter, creating pocket park amenities for residents. Though one structure, the building is split into two separately branded residences. OZMA, which occupies the western portion of the site, contains 275 for rent units and opens up onto M Street as well as the NoMa Meander, a linear greenspace that bisects the block and continues into the adjacent blocks. Amenities include a fitness center with private studio, a solarium, a sauna, and a tea room, among many others.
OZMA is distinguished by large expanses of glass separated by strong vertical metal banding, creating giant picture windows for residents.
Viewed from the outside, the bronze banding is accentuated by green accents on the glass, giving the façade a visual punch. The bands are carried down to the ground floor where they define the different ground floor spaces.
Entering into OZMA feels like stepping through a portal into somewhere otherworldly.
The interiors approach is characterized by unconventional geometries and bold material combinations, turning columns into set pieces, passageways into immersive art, and shared spaces into moments of discovery. The design conjures a vivid, surreal atmosphere.
A palette of green gem tones is used throughout and visually connects to the green accents on the exterior. The green tones range from vivid and bright to deep and moody and are pulled from nature and reflect the hues you might find on a forest walk. Ceilings drop into arches to frame curated vignettes. Curves echo one another throughout, from arched doorways, to sinuous banquettes, to meandering pathways that guide residents through the building.
The design approach focuses on discovery as residents can experience the spaces in a variety of ways.
Arriving through the entryway, residents are meant to feel transported into the world of OZMA.
The lobby is framed in tall windows that visually connect the space to the linear park that runs adjacent to the site.
Monumental screens filter the light and create a sense of intimacy. The furniture is organic in shape and is meant to visually flow together. Columns are clad in a light hand-glazed tile with a glossy finish, turning structural elements intro sculptural, decorative forms.
Reception exudes a theatrical elegance with soft curves and warm lighting.
Residents are welcomed home with a comfortable seating area. A large curved opening in the wall reveals a reception desk that flows in and out and feels otherworldy. Jade green velvet curtains catch the light behind the desk. Flooring is composed of hand-laid Paladiana terrazzo with large slabs of natural Crema Marfil marble broken along fault lines, adding an organic texture.
The library lounge is anchored by undulating upholstered banquettes that face the outdoors.
The banquettes define the edge of the space and support vertical screens which extend to the ceiling and echo the window screens at the entry vestibule. Here, the structural columns are clad in a vivid green zellige tile. Furniture selections continue the organic look and feel. Above, the ceiling drops to further define the space.
A central lounge features alcoves carved out of dark wood.
Textural contrasts between the oak, green-tiled columns, and soft furnishings add a tactile richness, while selective sightlines frame glimpses of adjacent areas.
Intimate nooks are sprinkled throughout, encouraging engagement and discovery.
A gallery lounge with a central art piece at its focal point is served by an intimate bar which appears carved out of the architecture.
A natural stone countertop and soft underlighting add to the dramatic framing.
The mailroom echoes the framing of the reception desk area.
Residents enter a curving room that is open to circulation on one side. The mailboxes are divided into two halves that flow together with the curvature of the room. The space doubles as a gallery with uplit sculptures and large mirrors.
The organic flow of pathways evokes a sense of exploration, as the space resists rigid architectural symmetry in favor of gentle curves.
Walls and pathways do not follow a classic architectural order – instead they gently bend and curve the way a path might through a thicket of trees.
A penthouse lounge creates a stunning indoor/outdoor space for residents to host gatherings.
Here a bar is framed by natural stone with graphic veining. A game room includes intimate alcoves.
A Japanese tea room offers space for mindfulness, meditation, and wellness.
Natural bamboo screens offer privacy and protection to personal nooks which open into their own individual outdoor spaces, providing a moment to relax and reflect.
