Historic Annapolis Post Office

Location: Annapolis, Maryland

Description: The Annapolis Post Office, built in 1901, is listed on the Maryland Historical Trust Inventory of Historic Properties. This style of building is a visual anchor within the Annapolis historic district and a focal point on Church Circle. The post office grounds have evolved over time to include a distribution center addition, two universal access ramps, and landscape changes. The United State Postal Service is privatizing real estate holdings throughout the country and is pursuing re-use plans for a portion of the Annapolis Post Office as well.

The project preserves the 1901 building including the grand staircases, removes non-historic structure, and skillfully adds adjacent construction: ground floor office/retail space, nine upper level condominium units, and parking. Other historic elements are revived, including trees that frame the front entrance and curb alignment to emphasize the circle, as existed in 1938.

A borrowed and distinguishing element of the landscape, the line of majestic lindens near the property line, is preserved with the help of an engineered retaining wall that spans and, thereby, protects the root zone. Under the linden canopy, a plant-lined walkway to a semi-private garden entrance sets apart the side access. Bluestone steps and cast stone trim reflect existing historic materials. On the opposite side of the property a gated, landscaped courtyard leads to a private condominium entrance. The addition boasts a green roof that promotes the benefit and suitability of sustainable technology in a dense, urban downtown.