I have no idea what goes on at the Peter G. Peterson Institute for International Economics. I am glad of this fact. I’m sure they’re marvelous people in there.

But wow, this building the PIIE is in—-now that’s worth getting to know. Think Tank Row over here on Massachusetts Avenue NW is not the type of place you look for anything interesting, and I am including in this declaration John Williamson‘s overview of Special Drawing Rights, which I’m sure has its merits beyond a general audience.

But I am here in front of the Peterson Institute HQ, designed by James von Klemperer of the New York architectural firm Kohn Pedersen Fox. Julian Hunt really, really likes this building. Some arguments in its favor:

• The “skillful change of rhythm”
• The “beautiful marble wall”
• It’s proportionate
• “Everything is very well thought-out”

Look at the bollards! They’re Jet Mist black granite. Nice bollards, Peter G. Peterson!

And check out the alley—the textures, the contrasts. Everything’s been considered here. Just a gorgeous building.