Employing the “Pecha Kucha” style to present ten slides in three minutes, Associates, Leslie Louden, AIA, LEED AP and Wally Etienne, AIA, LEED AP, highlighted two learning environments designed by Bowie Gridley Architects during the recent social gathering of the DC AIA Committee on Architecture for Education.  As Project Manager for the University of Mary Washington Residence Hall Renovation Project, completed in 2012, Leslie Louden demonstrated how the University transformed two aging residence halls and added academic venues to create a vibrant and sustainable “living-learning” center.  Wally Etienne, Project Manager for the recently completed Meridian Public Charter School Project, demonstrated how an existing historic school building could be imaginatively expanded through the addition of a new media center and multi-purpose space, as well as renovations to classrooms, and administrative spaces.  Both professionals are long-standing members of the DC AIA Committee on Architecture for Education. They remain active with outreach and planning upcoming programs that promote excellence in the design of learning environments.

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Founded in 1981, Bowie Gridley Architects specializes in work for institutions of community significance – academic and student life facilities, performing arts centers, libraries, athletic and recreational facilities, museums and cultural centers. The architecture, planning and interior design firm is based in Washington, D.C. and works with clients throughout the U.S. and abroad.

Washington, DC – Bowie Gridley Architects is pleased to announce that Sheena Wester, AIA, NCARB has joined the firm.  Wester is a graduate of the University of Miami, where she received a Bachelor of Architecture degree in 2004.  She is a LEED Accredited Professional.  Since joining BGA in 2013, she has worked as a Project Architect on renovation projects for various independent schools and The University of Virginia.  Wester is a member of the Washington, DC chapter of the American Institute of Architects.

Bowie Gridley Architects, established in 1981, specializes in work for institutions of community significance.  Projects include academic, science, and student life facilities, performing and visual arts centers, libraries, athletic and recreational facilities, museums and cultural centers.  The architecture, planning and interior design firm is based in historic Georgetown and works with clients throughout the U.S.

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) announced last week that Bowie Gridley Architects’ recent work at Meridian Public Charter School in Washington, DC has earned LEED certification. The renovation/addition of the former Harrison Elementary School provided over 63,000 square feet of space for the Pre-K through 8th grade students.

Improvements to the historic building include modernized classrooms and office spaces as well as a cafeteria, library and multi-purpose gym. The most prominent feature of the addition is the new gym, which is flanked by wings of the original building with recessed connecting spaces added on either side of the new center wing. Glass and metal panels are used in the addition to contrast with the existing masonry structure.

Elements that led to LEED certification include new energy-efficient windows, new HVAC systems, and re-use of materials in the existing building, as well as the building’s urban setting. BGA Associates Wolcott B. Etienne, AIA, LEED AP and Elise Robinson, AIA served as the Project Manager and Project Architect, respectively.

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Founded in 1981, Bowie Gridley Architects specializes in work for institutions of community significance – academic and student life facilities, performing arts centers, libraries, athletic and recreational facilities, 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.

Richard S. Salopek, AIA, Principal, Bowie Gridley Architects, was elected President of the McLean (VA) Planning Committee (MPC).  He will serve in this capacity for a one-year term beginning July 1, 2013. Salopek also served as MPC President in 2010-2011 and has been a member of the McLean Planning Committee since 2003.

“There are many exciting development plans being proposed in the McLean Community Business Center currently.  I look forward to playing a leadership role in ensuring that these proposals will be a positive addition to our community.”

The MPC is comprised of sixteen members: four each from surrounding Homeowner Associations, the McLean Citizens Association, the Greater McLean Chamber of Commerce, and the McLean Commercial Landowners Association (downtown business owners). MPC reviews proposed development proposals in the McLean central business district and makes recommendations to the Dranesville District Supervisor.

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Founded in 1981, Bowie Gridley Architects specializes in work for institutions of community significance – academic and student life facilities, performing arts centers, libraries, athletic and recreational facilities, 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.