Sitting at the heart of the Duke District plan, the design focuses on transforming the site into a dynamic destination for the neighborhood by connecting Howard University with the wider local community. Working with community groups, public agencies, historic preservation groups, Howard University, and advisory groups, the STUDIOS team has focused on public circulation within the site and broader connections at each streetscape.

Each streetscape will be updated to emphasize its unique character and connect with the local community. W Street will be re-envisioned as a pedestrian corridor linking Howard to the east with the U Street community to the west. Designed as a curbless private street, it will host farmers markets, fairs, and other events such as Howard’s homecoming and create connections to Howard University properties to the north.

Through a sensitive lens to historical context, community needs, and pedestrian connections, the Bond Bread / WRECO Redevelopment will provide not only the Duke District with a dynamic destination, but greater Washington, DC as well.

The design retains not only the exterior facades of these historically designated structures, but also significant interior portions of Bond Bread and the party wall between the two buildings, preserving distinctive spaces not typical to Washington, DC architecture.