Letter
Dear Mr. Hunter:
In its public meeting of 15 June conducted by videoconference, the Commission of Fine Arts reviewed a second concept design submission for a new three-story addition and associated site modifications at Alice Deal Middle School, located at 3815 Fort Drive, NW. The Commission expressed general support for the massing and footprint of the new building but did not take a formal action on the submission, providing the following comments for the continued development of the design.
The Commission members expressed appreciation for the additional documentation of the proposal and commented that the revised brick selection, which is similar in color and texture to the existing facade treatments, would help unify the school complex. However, they found that the design is still overly complicated, with a wide range of materials and with unnecessary expressive gestures, and it continues to convey a commercial character. Accordingly, they strongly advised simplifying or eliminating the form of the glazed corner bay; refining the articulation of the large, undivided windows at the top floor; and reducing or eliminating the use of metal panels. Finally, in acknowledging the student enrollment projections for the school, they urged continued planning to ensure the current project accommodates interior circulation throughout the school complex and does not constrain future campus improvements.
For the next submission, please continue consultation with the staff which, as always, is available to assist you.
Sincerely,
/s/Thomas E. Luebke, FAIA
Secretary
Delano Hunter, Acting Director
D.C. Department of General Services
2000 14th Street, NW, 8th Floor
Washington, DC 20009
cc: Paola Moya, Moya Design Partners
Eric Joerdens, Ashley McGraw Architects
Renee Pean, D.C. Public Schools