Woodward & Lothrop Service Warehouse

Woodward & Lothrop Service Warehouse is a six-story building with a two-toned beige brick exterior, limestone accents, and circular columns that define its linear design. The structure displays Streamline Moderne style throughout its reinforced concrete and brick construction.

Built between 1937 and 1939, the structure served as the main storage and distribution center for the Woodward & Lothrop department store chain. It played this role until 1995, when it transitioned to new uses.

The building shows how retail operations changed in Washington when department stores separated their storage areas from sales floors. This separation was an important step to keep downtown shops smaller and more focused on customers.

The building now functions as office space, housing several federal agencies including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Since it operates as an administrative building, public access may be limited.

The structure retains its original pink neon sign, which remained a recognizable feature for decades. This glowing sign connects visitors to the building's original purpose.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Inception: 1939

Architectural style: Streamline Moderne

Floors above the ground: 6

Made from material: reinforced concrete, brick, limestone

Address: 131 M St NE, Washington, DC 20002

GPS coordinates: 38.90500,-77.00444

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:42