Letter
Dear Mr. Anderson:
In its public meeting of 17 September conducted by videoconference, the Commission of Fine Arts reviewed a second concept submission for modifications to the Arboretum Recreation Center at 2412 Rand Place, NE. Expressing appreciation for the responsiveness of the revisions to the landscape and building design, the Commission approved the submission with the following comments.
The Commission members expressed general support for the architectural screen proposed for the southeast facade of the new building, noting that its success would depend on careful detailing; they requested that the next submission provide more information on the architectural concept and tectonic expression of the screen. While they endorsed the simplification of the form of the proposed gymnasium volume, they raised concern that it would be uncomfortably close and skewed in relation to the adjacent fenced tennis court; they suggested slightly rotating this volume or modifying its north facade to align with the court and fence. Finally, they praised the new entrance court design as a reinterpretation of the landscape at the entrance of the nearby National Arboretum administration complex and visitor center.
The Commission looks forward to the next review of this project. As always, the staff is available to assist you.
Sincerely,
/s/Thomas E. Luebke, FAIA
Secretary
Keith A. Anderson, Director
D.C. Department of General Services 2000
14th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20009
cc: Rick Harlan Schneider, I Studio Architects
Peter Nohrden, D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation