Letter
Dear Mr. Pritchard:
During its meeting of 21 April 2005, the Commission reviewed the proposed concept for the streetscape plan and perimeter security barriers designed for the Freedom Forum and Newseum to be located at 555 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW (SL 05-055). While the Commission has no objections to the majority of the design proposed for 6th and C Streets, the design intent for Pennsylvania Avenue as presented requires further study.
The continuity of the Pennsylvania Avenue streetscape is an important characteristic of its overall design. Therefore, the Commission requests that the sidewalk materials at the front entrance of the building be consistent with materials of the avenue, rather than introducing the black granite to differentiate the horizontal plane. The size and density of planters and benches proposed are inconsistent with the streetscape design for the avenue and creates a strong pedestrian barrier on the sidewalk. The Commission requests that the applicant reexamine the proposed layout of street furniture and encourages a reduction in mass and number of elements. Finally, the current configuration of planters and walls on the sidewalk at the intersection of 6th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue seems overly complex and should be reevaluated for the next submission.
The Commission looks forward to the continued review of this project. Please submit a revised concept for review when ready. As always, the staff is available to assist you.
Sincerely,
/s/Thomas Luebke, AIA
Secretary
Peter Pritchard, President, The Freedom Forum
1101 Wilson Boulevard
Arlington, VA 22209
cc: James Polshek, Polshek Partnership Architects
Edward M. Rogers, Nixon Peabody LLP
Judith H. Renfrew, CarrAmerica