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The new Department of Housing and Community Development (DCHD) headquarters stands as a gateway to Anacostia, exemplifying how thoughtful urban design can drive neighborhood revitalization. This public-private partnership balances historic preservation with modern functionality, integrating office space with ground-floor retail to stimulate local economic growth. The building’s dual-frontage design—an articulated brick façade along Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue and a river-facing side with expansive views—enhances both the neighborhood’s character and the broader cityscape.

Attendees will explore how the project overcame site challenges, including fragmented parcels and lot-line restrictions, through a creative barbell-shaped layout that fosters collaboration and interaction. Sustainability is a key highlight, with the building achieving a 70% reduction in Energy Use Intensity (EUI) through innovative features like a windowless south façade that doubles as a canvas for public art. This tour will provide insights into how urban development can integrate historic context, sustainability, and economic activation to create a lasting community impact.

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze how site constraints influence architectural design and urban development strategies.
• Evaluate the role of public-private partnerships in fostering economic revitalization and community engagement.
• Assess how architectural interventions can preserve and enhance historic urban fabric while integrating modern programmatic needs.
• Identify sustainable design strategies that reduce energy consumption and enhance building performance.

Presented by:

Ashton Allan, AIA, LEED AP