Last week, for the first time, the American Pharmacists Association opened its headquarters on Constitution Avenue for events. The venue consists of two connected buildings, ground-level outdoor terraces, and a spacious rooftop deck. On a heavily shaded and landscaped lot across the street from the Lincoln Memorial, the association's headquarters is the only privately held building facing the National Mall and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The original one-story Beaux Arts-style building was designed by John Russell Pope and dedicated in 1934. (Pope also designed the National Archives and the Jefferson Memorial.) Event spaces include the marble-lined Pope Hall Atrium, an art gallery with 40 paintings depicting moments in the history of pharmacy, and a meeting room, which, altogether can seat 168 or hold 270 for a reception. The adjoining Plaza Terrace can accommodate an additional 300 for a reception.
Behind the association's main building is a modern, LEED-certified six-story addition that was completed earlier this year. Available for events in February 2010, the addition has a rooftop terrace that offers sweeping views of the National Mall and beyond. The space will be permanently tented and have a reception capacity of 600.
Bookings and food service for the venue are handled by Occasions Caterers.
