Story

Garfield Elementary School, a historic educational facility in Washington, DC, has undergone a transformative renovation and expansion, aligning with the District's Equitable Access Program and the Sustainable DC initiative. The 73,000 sf modernization preserves and restores the original 1909 school building, designed by William Sidney Pittman, the first African American architect to design a public school in the District, along with its 1956 addition. The original 1909 building retains its original masonry facade while undergoing modernization. Restored metal railings serve as wayfinding elements, and classrooms were upgraded with cutting-edge technology, improved lighting, and enhanced acoustics. The 1956 addition was preserved and upgraded for energy efficiency and functionality, now housing support spaces and classrooms that facilitate collaboration. The new wing connects seamlessly to the historic structures, establishing a central hub for flexible learning. It features adaptable classrooms, collaborative zones, and large windows for natural daylight. The brick in the facade respects the historic aesthetic while distinguishing the addition as a contemporary intervention. The outdoor spaces serve educational and environmental purposes. Bioretention gardens manage stormwater runoff and function as outdoor classrooms, while inclusive play areas accommodate children of all abilities. Accessible pathways and gender-neutral restrooms further reinforce equity. Inside, a balance of rectilinear and organic forms creates a sense of discovery, with color and playful patterns guiding students through the building. The result is a school that honors its past while positioning itself as a model for sustainable, inclusive educational design. Designed to achieve LEED Gold certification and Net Zero Energy readiness, the modernization prioritizes sustainability, energy efficiency, and stormwater management. A new addition complements the existing structures, utilizing durable masonry to ensure longevity while directing resources toward renewable materials and high-performance building systems. Features such as geothermal wells, photovoltaic panels, and automated energy-saving technologies support a low-energy-use design, targeting an EUI of 21. The state-of-the-art building fosters inclusivity through accessible pathways, gender-neutral restrooms, and diverse playground experiences, ensuring all students can fully engage with their learning environment. The campus design also incorporates outdoor classrooms and bioretention areas, serving as ecological assets and educational tools for students to learn about local ecosystems. The project integrates contemporary learning environments while maintaining the integrity of the school's historic fabric. Delivered through a design-build approach, the project met budget and schedule constraints while maintaining high-quality standards. Extensive collaboration with school administrators, parents, and preservation agencies ensured that Garfield Elementary remains a vital community resource, integrating historic preservation with forward-thinking design to support students for generations to come.