Letter
Dear Ms. Hall:
In its public meeting of 19 September conducted by videoconference, the Commission of Fine Arts reviewed a program for comfort stations on the National Mall at various locations between 4th Street and 23rd Street. The Commission approved the general concept for the program and provided the following comments.
Recognizing that security, access, and sustainability standards have evolved over time, the Commission members expressed strong support for the forward-thinking program and thoughtful analysis that explores several options to replace existing or construct new comfort stations on the National Mall. In their discussion, they supported the project team’s preferred design approaches, which include a strong sense of horizontality for the buildings; where smaller separate buildings are proposed, they suggested incorporating a connecting canopy, both to emphasize a consistent horizontal identity for the stations and to create additional shade and shelter. They encouraged integrating sustainable and resilient measures, such as green roofs or solar arrays—potentially expressed architecturally on the highly visible roofs of the proposed structures. In their support for the preferred option for materials, they recommended using durable and noble materials consistent with the National Mall context. They also recommended exploring nighttime views and lighting for these buildings within the Mall landscape to ensure inclusivity and access during all hours of the day as well as a sense of safety.
The Commission looks forward to reviewing the development of individual comfort station designs as part of this important program. Please continue to coordinate with the staff which, as always, is available to assist you.
Sincerely,
/s/Thomas E. Luebke, FAIA
Secretary
Kym A. Hall, Area Director
Region 1 – National Capital Area
National Park Service
1100 Ohio Drive, SW
Washington, DC 20242
cc: David Rubin, David Rubin Land Collective
Kate Scurlock, GWWO Architects