Cooper Carry Transforms Historic Building

The Mill at 515, a 25 chic-apartment building, is now open for leasing in Old Town Alexandria.

By Alex Lopez, Associate Editor

515MillWashington, D.C.—Architecture firm Cooper Carry and developer CAS Riegler are celebrating the grand opening of The Mill at 515. The now 25 apartment building has a storied past in Old Town Alexandria. Originally The Mount Vernon Cotton Factory in 1847, the five-story property was then turned into a Civil War prison, then a bottling house, followed by a storage facility, on to a spark plug factory, apartments and most recently, office space, before becoming apartments once again.

Because of the rich history of the site the entitlement and approval process involved collaborations between different agencies and committees including the Upper Old Town Design advisory committee, the Alexandria Board of Architectural Review and the Historic Preservation and Washington Street Design Guidelines arms of the National Parks Service.

The developer enlisted Cooper Carry to transform the office building into chic one and two-bedroom apartments with an array of amenities such as an event room with kitchen, outdoor space overlooking the Potomac River and a park with art features and seating. Interior amenities include 12-foot ceilings with original wood, iron and steel features, high-end cabinets, hardwood floor and stainless steel kitchen appliances.

515The prime location offers residents the ability to walk to the Metro, waterfront parks and trails, restaurants, coffee shops, bars, retailers and grocery stores such as Trader Joe’s and Harris Teeter.

“The rich history and character of this building is rare in any city, but especially in the Washington, D.C. area, where
historic industrial use buildings are highly uncommon,” said Adam Stifel, principal at CAS Riegler. “We were immediately struck by its authenticity and charm, and we’re excited to have the opportunity to contribute to its unique legacy.”

The property will offer per-friendly units varying in sizes from 450 to 2,000 square feet. Leasing is currently underway.

Photos courtesy of Cooper Carry /  A Josh Meister Photo.