Letter
Dear Mr. Hunter:
In its public meeting of 19 February conducted by videoconference, the Commission of Fine Arts reviewed a concept design submission for renovations and additions to Shirley Chisholm Elementary School, located at 1001 G Street, SE. The Commission approved the concept and provided the following comments for the development of the design.
The Commission members expressed strong support for the proposed landscape and redbrick additions, which they found would both complement and improve the historic 1949 school building. They commented that the connection between the new classroom and gymnasium additions along 11th Street would benefit from further refinement, suggesting consideration of extending the facade treatment of the classroom volume to the south by one bay. They also requested study of adding a band to the new facades that would echo the belt course on the existing school. For the cafeteria addition, they suggested adding a fourth window to the south facade, and they expressed a preference for the lighter color option for the metal canopy given its size and scale. Finally, they expressed support for the location and general design intent of the two public artworks, commenting that the proposed recesses within the facades would provide an appropriate setting for the art.
The Commission looks forward to further review of this project, including the public artwork, which should be submitted as a separate project when ready. Please continue to consult with the staff which, as always, is available to assist you.
Sincerely,
/s/Thomas E. Luebke, FAIA
Secretary
Delano Hunter, Director
D.C. Department of General Services
3924 Minnesota Avenue, NE
Washington, DC 20019
cc: Hiroshi Jacobs, Studios Architecture
Dani Alexander, Studio AKA