More Than Meets the Eye (right now) at City Market at O Street NW (PART ONE)

The title kind of misleads - but in a good way. I had the opportunity to visit and be guided through the 'campus' that is Market at O Street, and there are so many hidden gems and design features that you just don't see from street level. From a personal perspective, I have seen the 'flyers' and heard the 'PR' but the surprise is its all true, and more.

The original 'ghost' signage cleaned and restored with the greatest respect.

There is so much to write about "O" that I hope I don't miss anything (important). For those who need a primer, the O Street Market project spans 2 city blocks, 7th to 9th Streets NW and O & P Streets. The project has the re-opening of 8th Street NW between O and P Streets, this space will incorporate green space, retail and restaurants. (There will be 87,000 sq ft of retail space)  Dolci Gelati have already signed up and will be one of the first retail business's to open in this hot new destination. There are rumors about a 'named' restaurant, but lets not speculate.

8th Street NW will re-open between O and P Streets and add retail and restaurants

The tree pits are pretty much complete and the special 'rounded' curbstone's are in place, 8th Street looks almost ready, as well as the entry to the new Giant.

I wonder how many of my readers will be passing through these doors in the coming months

Which leads me to what is probably the most anticipated segment of O Street Market - Giant. To my reader's, and "old" Giant shoppers - you will not believe your eyes. To everyone else - you will want to come visit (yes, a grocery store) The original O Street Market, constructed in 1881, is restored, and with such care. Project Manager Sean Cruikshank (Clark Construction) led me through the structure(s) explaining how bricks were kept from the old structure and reused, maintaining the feel of the original, the space(s) are cavernous and already appropriate tiling is up for the food 'court'

Original Brick and "sensitive" design throughout the old market space

Maybe not the best photo - but you can see the white tiled wall on the 7th Street side spans its length

The food court, kitchens and prep areas are close to completion

The refrigerated food equipment is already being placed, as are the frozen food 'freezers, everything thing that makes a Giant a Giant is at some stage of installation, which is good news, because the opening in November is set and (believe it or not) will happen. Throughout the 19th century the Market functioned not only as a market but as a place for residents to meet and socialize. The CityMarket at O and Giant plan to recreate this experience and from what I have seen and heard they will succeed.

Refrigerated units and shelving is already being installed

From up above the expanse of the "old" O Street Market - now restored

Faux doors line the old building on 7th Street, specially made of reclaimed mahogany, and although they are not functional, they are copies of original door designs that enhance the structures age.

Faux Doors of re-purposed mahogany line the market on 7th Street

Of the exterior; so much care was taken to maintain the exterior, the brick is all original as are the window frames, with there intricate design. The roof is new and mimics the original and the original 'ghost' signs on both the 7th and O Street sides are restored (but not repainted). Currently landscaping, sidewalks et al are being completed - a walk past the old market will give you a preview.

Sidewalks and Landscaping the exterior of the old market structure.

Here I am going to stop, as stated, the project is huge and requires a posting in two parts to cover its design and function.  The 2nd Part will look at the unique urban living that Market at O will provide its residents.

Look for Part Two on the Market at O project over the next few days..........