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Building Overview

Constructed in 1936, the building was used for the classification and standardization of cotton and tobacco until 2007. After years of vacancy, the building’s rich history was restored through an adaptive reuse of the structure and a 13-story tower featuring modern and unique amenities was added.

Street view of the historic Department of Agriculture building in Southwest DC, seamlessly integrated with the newly constructed Annex on 12th, featuring large industrial-style windows and a modern black penthouse addition.Street view of the historic Department of Agriculture building in Southwest DC, seamlessly integrated with the newly constructed Annex on 12th, featuring large industrial-style windows and a modern black penthouse addition.

Quote from the Architect

“Annex on 12th isn’t just a place to live, it’s a piece of history reimagined for the future. We transformed a vacant office into a vibrant community. The project honors the rich history while preserving architectural elements that enhance its connection to the neighborhood.”
-Eric Wohnsigl

Image Carousel

  • Historic photo from original Cotton Annex offices

    Image description: Historic black-and-white photo of two women examining cotton grade samples at the Cotton Annex, part of a U.S. Department of Agriculture marketing display featuring “Universal Standards for Grade of American Upland Cotton.”

  • Historic photo from original Cotton Annex offices

    Image description: Black-and-white archival photo of men in suits and hats gathered inside the historic Cotton Annex, surrounded by tall filing cabinets used for organizing cotton grade records and agricultural data.

  • By Farragutful - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0 tinyurl.com/4b9rn766

    Image description: Picture of original building

Annex on 12th Awards

  • WBC logo

    WBC Craftsmanship Award

    Annex on 12th is pleased to take home the Washington Building Congress Craftmanship Award for masonry.