Story

The Georgetown Preparatory School Campus Center and Residence Hall was a transformational project for the school’s historic campus in North Bethesda, Maryland. This multifaceted project included an 82,000+ SF residence hall with 70 dorm units and 16 faculty apartments alongside new sports amenities comprising a stadium and three athletic fields, all intricately woven into the campus landscape. The vision for the Residence Hall is for it to serve as a true campus center for the school. Beyond providing living spaces for the faculty and students, the building features several shared spaces such as a library, faculty offices, student lounges, a tiered assembly room, and a student infirmary. This consolidation of spaces fosters a sense of community among students, fulfilling a previously unmet need and offering them a unique and privileged experience. One of the primary challenges faced by Manhattan and our trade partners was harmonizing the new structures with the school's century-old campus aesthetics. Through meticulous coordination between the construction and design teams, materials were selected to align seamlessly with the school's historic character. Upholding the highest quality standards was imperative, given the school's aspiration for the Residence Hall and stadium to stand as cornerstone features within its historic grounds. The building boasts a sturdy concrete structure with a facade blending masonry, cast stone, and a curtain wall section. Interior finishes, including terrazzo, millwork wall paneling and trim, and impact-resistant drywall, further reflect the project's commitment to excellence. Simultaneously, the construction of the sports facilities, echoing the architectural language of the Residence Hall, was underway. The stadium, with its structural precast risers, press box with coaches' suites, and dedicated locker rooms and restrooms, complements the campus landscape. Nestled between the Residence Hall and stadium lies a new synthetic turf field tailored for lacrosse and football, while two new natural grass fields on the north side cater to soccer and track teams. Enhancements to the campus infrastructure encompassed milling and paving existing roadways, creating new parking areas, exposed-aggregate concrete walkways, and implementing stormwater management facilities, culminating in the creation of a new campus quad. Each aspect was meticulously crafted to integrate seamlessly with the existing environment, and mockups were rigorously reviewed and approved prior to construction. The project's resounding success is a testament to the collaborative synergy fostered between Manhattan, our trade partners, the client, and the design team. This steadfast partnership, marked by mutual respect and shared goals, was instrumental in realizing the school's vision of a facility destined to become integral to its historic legacy for generations to come. Each stakeholder can take pride in their contribution to this achievement.