WATERGATE AT 50 - LOOKIN' GOOD

The following is from zcomm CEO & Founder Risë Birnbaum, Watergate resident, to help mark the Watergate’s 50th Anniversary.

When looking to move from Bethesda, MD to downtown DC about 10 years ago one thing was certain: I wanted a water view. And that wasn’t easy to find in DC with only a handful of apartments with that perfect Potomac perch. But, I chose the Watergate and it’s been a magical 10 years.

I bought a large apartment on the 11th floor facing the Potomac and renovated it. My dad was a modern architect who loved the Bauhaus and that love rubbed off on me, so my apartment is flat out modern…more Miami or LA than DC, with curves that echo the curves of the iconic building, furniture by Eames and Henry Miller and colorful art on large, white walls. In addition to a great space, I’ve got a rockin’ view of Roosevelt Island and Rosslyn, VA, a two-minute walk to the Kennedy Center, cool neighbors and a 5-minute commute to my downtown office. It was also dog friendly, so my Maltese, Moose, was in. Who could ask for more?

A few other Watergate tidbits:

· The Complex was designed by noted Italian architect Luigi Moretti

· Watergate East alone has residents from 22 different countries

· The residents are getting younger and gutting their apartments for a “face lift”

· It’s a co-op like most NYC buildings (and, thankfully, our co-op shares are increasing in value)

· The Watergate Hotel is opening soon, so Foggy Bottom will be the new #1 D.C. hotspot

There’s a gala Tuesday night, October 27, at The Kennedy Center to celebrate the Watergate’s 50th birthday with NPR Correspondent Scott Simon as emcee. And what a perfect night that will be – one iconic Arts Center paying tribute to one of America’s iconic buildings. And I’m thrilled and thankful to call the Watergate home.

Risë Birnbaum

CEO + Founder of zcomm

Can be contacted at rise@zpr.com or (202) 821-1020 ext 103