After an extensive search, KIPP DC selected a site in the burgeoning Union Market neighborhood to become the new home for their College Preparatory (KCP) High School. Located adjacent to Gallaudet University, the site area was limited for the ambitious program and was encumbered with significant topography. STUDIOS strategically located the compact building footprint at the highest point on the site and partially embedded the building into the hillside to maximize area for athletic fields. We created a cascade of vertical open space, which visually connected the major program spaces (e.g., cafeteria, gym, college counseling, auditorium) and lifted the classrooms to take advantage of extraordinary views to DC’s monumental core.

STUDIOS organized the building interior along three intersecting volumes to visually and physically connect all five levels of the building. Thoughtful use of transparency balanced the need for student oversight with the desire to create a more open learning environment.

By elevating the classrooms to the top two levels and incorporating floor to ceiling glass, views of the monuments create an aspirational moment for students and teachers upon arrival. High performance glass, deep verticals to prevent low sun glare, and fully automatic roller shades minimize any student distraction and maximize user control for the instructors.

The new school was one of the first District of Columbia projects to be submitted under the new 2014 DOEE (formerly the DDOE) Stormwater Regulations. Innovative retention and treatment strategies for stormwater are designed in the green roofs, parking lots, bio-retention areas and under the artificial turf field. The school also incorporates an energy efficient mechanical system, LED lighting and operable windows.