Lawrence Ferris
Counsel
Washington, D.C.
lferris@goulstonstorrs.com+1 202 721 1135Lawrence Ferris
Counsel, Washington, D.C.
lferris@goulstonstorrs.com+1 202 721 1135Related Expertise
Developers and owners building mixed-use, multifamily, retail, office, institutional, and hospitality properties in Washington, DC know Lawrence Ferris will diligently work through the complex process until the projects are built.
With an impressive track record for completing complex land use, zoning, and historic preservation projects, Lawrence handles projects from conception to completion. Whether it’s a major mixed-use development or smaller-scale endeavors, he shepherds projects through all phases of development. Clients value his pragmatic approach to a host of needs, including due diligence, feasibility studies, and site acquisitions; entitlements, such as special exception and variance applications, Zoning Map amendments, PUDs, and Design Reviews; permitting; community outreach; and related litigation, should it arise.
Managing Multi-Agency Reviews
Lawrence navigates Washington, DC’s full regulatory ecosystem – from the Zoning Commission and Board of Zoning Adjustment to the Historic Preservation Review Board, the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, and Public Space Committee. He secures Large Tract Reviews, obtains Building Code Modifications, ensures Inclusionary Zoning compliance, and builds consensus with District agencies, Advisory Neighborhood Commissions (ANCs), and community stakeholders.
Related Representative Matters
A national real estate developer pursuing a multifamily project in Georgetown. Secured PUD approval and key design sign-offs from the Old Georgetown Board and the Commission of Fine Arts, overcoming historic preservation challenges.
A regional developer planning redevelopment along a major Anacostia corridor. Obtained zoning map amendment to allow mixed-use uses, unlocking transformative potential in the neighborhood.
Real estate investors and developers using the District’s Housing in Downtown (HID) Property Tax Abatement program. Guided applications under the program, including its expansion into Dupont Circle and Georgetown.
Property owners with projects near the White House and U.S. Capitol. Secured Board of Zoning Adjustment approvals for habitable penthouses, addressing design and security constraints.
A real estate company redeveloping a Friendship Heights site. Obtained PUD approval for a mixed-use plan focused on new multifamily housing.
An entertainment operator establishing a live performance venue in Union Market. Secured special exception and variance approvals to permit the use.
A developer renovating an office building in Capitol Riverfront/Navy Yard. Obtained Design Review approval for the District’s first mass timber construction project, advancing sustainable development
A national developer launching a multi-phase redevelopment in Buzzard Point. Secured Design Review approval for the first phase, enabling one of D.C.’s largest waterfront transformations.
A private developer facing opposition to a Georgetown project. Defended zoning appeal and negotiated settlement to preserve project momentum.
Institutional and private developers participating in D.C.’s Downtown density credit trading system. Handled certification, purchase, and sale of credits to streamline transactions.
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Accolades
- Best Lawyers in America® Ones to Watch (2021-2026): Real Estate
- GW Law Pro Bono Recognition (2014)
Affiliations
- District of Columbia Bar Association
- Urban Land Institute
Admissions
- District of Columbia
- Maryland
Education
The George Washington University Law School ( J.D. , 2014 )
University of Tennessee ( B.A. , summa cum laude , 2008 )