The American Institute of Architects’ new dwelling in Washington DC has been designed by San Francisco-based EHDD to be “one of many first absolutely decarbonised main renovations within the US”.
The AIA World Campus for Structure & Design is a part of a net-zero campus that additionally consists of an outside courtyard, the AIA Design Store, Grace Avenue Espresso Roasters, and The Octagon Museum – the AIA’s former dwelling that now accommodates the Structure Basis.
Situated at 1735 New York Avenue NW, near the White Home and Nationwide Mall, the newly retrofitted brutalist constructing hosts applications, displays, strolling excursions and workshops aimed toward partaking the general public to find structure.
EHDD was liable for the structure and interiors for the undertaking, whereas Hartman-Cox Architects served because the on-site architect.
“AIA’s newly renovated constructing is without doubt one of the first absolutely decarbonised main renovations within the US,” stated an announcement from the organisation. “This adaptive reuse undertaking showcases a cheap, scalable, replicable method to decarbonisation.”
On observe to realize LEED Platinum standing, the constructing’s sustainable options embody an exterior photovoltaic sunshade system, a cool roof system, insulated glazing and LED lighting with occupancy sensors.
Biophilic components similar to inside planting, using pure supplies and entry to sunlight are all key components included by the design workforce.
The primary flooring of the constructing consists of a big exhibition house, the place unique concrete flooring are uncovered and a wood-lined ceiling integrates a observe lighting system.
AIA reveals winners of 2025 Structure Awards
Within the foyer, a wall of darkish stone is etched with each recipient of The Structure Agency Award, from Skidmore Owings & Merrill in 1962 to the 2025 winner LPA Design Studios.
One other expanse of wall equally lists the names of each AIA Gold Medal winner, together with final yr’s laureate Deborah Berke.
A faceted, wood-wrapped reception desk welcomes guests, with the AIA’s round emblem mounted and backlit on the white wall behind.
Upstairs, workplace areas function blocky, modular furnishings upholstered in shiny materials, whereas daring hues are utilized to the partitions of glass-fronted assembly rooms.
“The constructing showcases the profound influence of structure and design on our communities, society, and the world,” stated AIA. “We invite everybody to expertise the transformative energy of design firsthand.”
The AIA’s mission is to drive enchancment within the constructed atmosphere by way of setting trade requirements, selling local weather motion and elevating the function of structure in society.
Final yr, the organisation denounced an government order signed by president Donald Trump that goals to advertise classical structure, and launched a research stating that solely six per cent of architects are often utilizing synthetic intelligence.
The images is by Judy Davis.
Undertaking credit:
Undertaking government: Stephen T AyersArchitecture and interiors: EHDDOn-site architect: Hartman-Cox ArchitectsGeneral contractor: Turner Development CompanyLandscape architect: Hood Design StudioDecarbonisation skilled and MEP: Level Vitality InnovationsMEP: Affiliated EngineersClient consultant: CresaCivil engineer: Sherwood Design EngineersStructural engineer (constructing) and fireplace code: Holmes StructuresLighting/AV/acoustics/safety/IT: ARUP
