Dedication ceremonies for the renewed and expanded Dolley Madison Library in Fairfax County, VA were held on July 9, 2011. Designed by Bowie Gridley Architects, the 19,000 sf community library retains the front facade of the original (1967) building while adding an enlarged reading room, circulation desk, and large staff workroom, new community meeting room and children’s reading area.  The design takes advantage of a heavily wooded site, providing pleasant views year-round to the adjacent forest at McLean Park.

Slated to receive LEED Gold Certification, the new library incorporates sustainable design features, including:  site planning that strives for low environmental impact, use of materials that promote indoor environmental quality, efficient and renewable energy sources, a 4,600 sf green roof, and use of recycled materials.

Founded in 1981, Bowie Gridley Architects specializes in work for institutions of community significance — schools, performing arts centers, libraries, athletic and recreation centers, museums and cultural centers.  The architecture, planning and interior design firm is based in historic Georgetown and works with clients throughout the U.S. and abroad.

Washington International School celebrated the completion of new construction at its Primary School Campus in Washington, DC with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by members of the School Community.  The celebration signaled the completion of more than two years of design and construction to upgrade and expand its facilities and the beginning of a new phase of growth for the School.

Designed by Bowie Gridley Architects, the WIS project consists of additions and renovations totaling 12,000 square feet.  A two-story, 9,800 sf addition allowed WIS to expand classrooms, and to create a new lobby, offices and multi-purpose room with dining facilities.  The project also includes a new canopy over the play area, expansion of parking and reorganization of site elements for improved safety and accessibility.  The project incorporates a new green roof, natural day-lighting, construction waste recycling, and use of sustainable materials worthy of certification under US Green Building Council guidelines.

Washington International School (WIS) is a coeducational day school offering students a challenging curriculum and rich language program from Pre-Kindegarten through Grade 12.  The WIS Community (students, parents, faculty and staff) represents 98 countries.

Founded in 1981, Bowie Gridley Architects specializes in work for institutions of community significance – schools, performing arts centers, libraries, athletic and recreation facilities, museums and cultural centers.  The architecture, planning and interior design firm is based in historic Georgetown and works with independent schools throughout the U.S. and abroad.

Roland Park Country School’s new Athletic Center, designed by Bowie Gridley Architects, recently received LEED Gold Certification in recognition of its sustainable design innovations.  The new facility is located on the old gym site, minimizing its impact on its surroundings.  Site lighting is designed to reduce the amount of light pollution on the site and surrounding areas.  “Energy Star” roofing is designed to minimize the effect caused from darker roofs, and windows maximize natural day lighting but minimize heat gain.   A partial green vegetative roof over portions of the building, the use of  low-emitting recycled materials, and cabinetry approved by the Forestry Stewardship Council are among many sustainable design strategies that resulted in the achievement of LEED Gold.