PROJECT  Arboretum Community Center

LOCATION Washington, District of Columbia, US​

ARCHITECT ISTUDIO Architects

CLIENT DC Department of General Services

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN TEAM Rick Schneider, FAIA; Marisa Brown, AIA; Dan Snook, AIA; Tanja Werner; Sara Al Khatib; Lantian Zhang

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT
CONTRACTOR GCS-Sigal

ENGINEERS
BEI Structural Engineers
A. Morton Thomas & Associates
Setty & Associates
Setty & Associates

PHOTOGRAPHER Photographer: Anice Hoachlander; Photographer: Kris Ilich; Rendering: ISTUDIO Architects

CONSULTANTS (if applicable)

PROJECT COMPLETION DATE  11/5/2022

PROJECT SUMMARY
The Arboretum Community Center stands as a testament to the transformative power of innovative design, sustainability, and community collaboration. As the DC government’s first mass timber building, it revitalizes a dilapidated field house, merging historic preservation with cutting-edge advancements to create a net zero ready recreational haven.

A VISION OF SUSTAINABILITY
Upon entering the Arboretum Community Center, one senses the harmony between nature and architecture. The design emphasizes biophilic principles, inviting natural light through strategically placed openings. This approach enhances the space aesthetically and aligns with sustainable strategies. Daylighting and smart building controls reduce energy consumption, while integrated stormwater management systems enhance the center's ecological resilience.
The gym, constructed from cross-laminated timber, stands as a beacon of carbon capture. The project avoided emitting 91 metric tons of CO2 compared to traditional methods. Using 44 cubic meters of wood, which North American forests can regrow in seven seconds, it stores 43 metric tons of CO2, totaling a carbon benefit of 134 metric tons—equivalent to removing 28 cars from the road or powering 14 homes for a year. The green roof and rainwater retention systems further contribute to the center's sustainability, while the energy efficiency measures achieve a 29.6% savings without solar panels and 56% with them. Total annual energy usage is 427 MM BTU, with solar panels generating 163.1 MM BTU, resulting in a net energy usage of 32 KBTU/sf/year, significantly exceeding baseline standards.

ENGAGING THE COMMUNITY
The Arboretum Community Center's design is deeply rooted in community engagement. Shaped by numerous meetings with residents, the design incorporates a wide range of requests—from senior spaces to boxing facilities and a half-court gym—effectively doubling the field house’s programming capacity.
The design ensures seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor areas. The community room opens onto a spacious patio, maintaining consistent access to exterior spaces. The partially sunken basketball court doubles as an outdoor amphitheater and stormwater catchment, enhancing flexibility and inclusivity.

HONORING THE PAST
Preserving the historic Mission 66 Field House was a key priority. Collaborating with the DC Historic Preservation Office and the National Commission of Fine Arts, the design team restored the field house and added a modern extension, doubling the programming space despite challenges like utility easements and protected trees.
A glass connector between the old and new structurEs creates a naturally lit lobby, seamlessly bridging past and present. The custom metal screen at the entrance serves as a focal point, regulating daylight and preserving views. This integration respects the original field house's legacy while expanding indoor and outdoor connections.

A LEGACY OF TRANSFORMATION
The Arboretum Community Center is more than a building; it is a narrative of transformation. It seamlessly unites modern design, sustainability, and historical sensitivity, illustrating the practical impact of net zero readiness and mass timber construction. This project stands as a beacon of what can be achieved when innovation, community engagement, and respect for the past come together, setting a new standard for sustainable and inclusive community spaces.

AIA Maryland Sustainability Award

JURY COMMENTS (if applicable)

IMAGES – CAPTIONS & CREDITS

Image 1  Arboretum Community Center | Anice Hoachlander
Image 2  Seamless Blend of Indoor and Outdoor Spaces | Anice Hoachlander
Image 3  DC Department of Parks and Recreation's First Mass Timber Building | Kris Ilich
Image 4  Materiality Connect Historic Structure with New Addition | Kris Ilich
Image 5  Custom Metal Screen Enhances Exterior Views, Daylight, and Biophilic Principles with Moving Light and Shadows| Anice Hoachlander
Image 6  Historic Renovation Showcases Smart Stormwater Management with Scuppers and Rain Chains Highlighting Water Cycles | Anice Hoachlander
Image 7  Building Views Enhance Security and Connect Indoor and Outdoor Spaces, Showcasing the Fitness Center's View of Playgrounds and Field Beyond | Anice Hoachlander
Image 8  The Sunken Mass Timber Gym Connects Directly to the Outdoor Amphitheatre

MEDIA FOR DOWNLOAD
Project PDF