Archinect
Andrew Metzler

Andrew Metzler

Washington, DC, US

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Southwest D.C. Information Hub

a small information hub for the washington d.c. department of transportation to be located at the southwest waterfront metro stop on the green line. the site has been in constant transition since the 1950s when the original fabric of the city was ripped out as a result of a congressional urban renewal project. the area is a vibrant residential neighborhood, however lacks a suessful commercial presence. new developments including the performance center “arena stage,” the area lacks a focal gathering point, so the objective was to create a public space that will be used by the three targeted use groups, tourists, residents, and commuters. the plaza is designed as a passive intervention in order to not directly effect a commuter’s daily routine, while inviting tourists and residents. the plaza is also accessible from all directions to become a gathering point. this is done by siting the information hub itself in the southeast corner of the site. an organic pattern and the use of seating, trees, and smaller plantings create a unique and friendly environment. the placement of the hub will provide high visability from the metro and cross streets. the unique style will give a distinguished flavor to what is a gateway to the southwest waterfront .

the information hub minimizes its size by embedding the service functions into the east wall of the building. a void in this service wall gives visual prominence to the information desk. the small island counter in the center of the space allows users to walk though the hub uninhibited while allowing the option of stopping and viewing displays. there are also three large display boards inside and an additional five large exterior panels. the hub utilizes a nana wall systems that opens the main space to the piazza further tie the hub with the piazza.


the ecological conditions of the site were a driving force in the design of the information hub. site planning to manage storm water run off was accomplished through permeable paving, and the strategic placement of bioswales and planting. grey and rain water is diverted to an underground cistern for site irrigation. the design of the roof maximizes solar angles to shade in the summer and heat in the winter, and the curvature of the roof can maintain 45% coverage with nano-solar panels.  high efficiency lighting and plumbing fixtures in addition to ductless hvac systems minimize energy consumption. 

 
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Status: School Project
Location: 4th st. and M st. SW Washington D.C.