BGA will be exhibiting at the 2015 TABS Conference in Boston on December 3-4. Stop by booth 44 in the exhibit hall of the Boston Marriott Copley Place. TABS is the professional development venue for heads of schools, marketing, admission, academic, residential life, diversity/multiculturalism and campus health professionals and other administrators. We look forward to catching up with all of our valued collaborators and clients.

Bowie Gridley Architects will be a sponsor and exhibitor at the inaugural 2015 Pennsylvania Association of Independent Schools (PAIS) Boarding School Conference hosted by The Hill School in Pottstown, PA. The November 30 conference will be an opportunity to gather as colleagues to learn about the exciting work being done in member schools. Please be sure to visit BGA in the exhibit area in the dining hall building.

Bowie Gridley Architects (BGA) is pleased to announce several new positions that will enable the firm to continue a tradition of delivering design and project management that utilizes the state-of-the-art in project methodologies. Principal Richard Salopek, AIA and Associate Elise Robinson, AIA will share the role of Director of Building Information Modeling (BIM). As co-directors, they will be responsible for furthering the integration of BIM technology into BGA’s practice by refining standards, training, and software implementation. Associate David Marks, AIA will assume the role of Director of Building Technology, providing leadership in the implementation of building science technologies including building envelope, materials, and assembly innovations. These new roles will serve as complement to BGA’s existing quality control and assurance practices—creating client value and technical excellence. Bowie Gridley Architects specializes in work for institutions of community significance—schools, performing arts venues, libraries, athletic facilities, museums, and others. BGA builds for life; we are proud to design the places where people gather to talk, teach, learn, work and play.

Bowie Gridley Architects and contractors were honored at the annual Metro Washington and Virginia Chapters of Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC’s) at the 34th annual Excellence in Construction Awards, held on September 16.
The awards recognize and celebrate outstanding projects built by Washington-area ABC members. BGA awarded projects include; Coastal Flats with Forrester Construction Company, The Madeira School with Mallick Mechanical, Ballou High School with Shapiro & Duncan, Inc. and the Chevy Chase Winter Center with Chiaramonte Construction Company.

Bowie Gridley Architects (BGA) is pleased to announce that Steven C. Yates, Assoc. AIA has joined the firm as Director of Development. Yates brings almost 15 years of professional experience in business development, marketing, and communications within the architecture profession. He joins from the Washington, DC, office of Perkins Eastman, where he most recently served as the firm’s director of communications. In his new role at BGA, Yates will facilitate the firm’s continued success in the planning and design of schools, community facilities, and cultural institutions.

Founding Principal Cal Bowie says of Yates, “We are pleased to welcome a marketing professional that shares BGA’s commitment to innovation and excellence, he is a valuable addition to our well-established practice and brings unique insight into the industry.”

Yates is a member of the Society of Marketing Professional Services (SMPS) and is an Associate member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). He received a BS in Architecture from Kent State University and an MBA from the University of Pittsburgh, Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business.

Tucker Field at Barcroft Park, a baseball field shared by the George Washington University Colonials (Atlantic 10) Baseball Team and Arlington County’s recreational baseball leagues, was recognized in “The Perks of Pairing Up” (Parks & Rec Business Magazine, May 2015 issue).

Recently ranked as a top stadium facility in the Atlantic 10 Baseball Conference, the facility will be hosting the 2015 Atlantic-10 Conference Baseball Championship tournament to be held May 20-23, 2015.

The facility features a 450-seat stadium, a synthetic turf field and bullpens (with clay mounds), grandstand, press box with state-of-the-art technology, concessions, and dugouts, as well as spectator gathering, picnic areas, and expanded parking.

For more information:  GW Baseball at Arlington Barcroft Park

Georgetown University’s Lauinger Library Booth Family Center for Special Collections re-opened its doors on March 23rd. Mark Dimunation, Chief, Rare Book and Special Collections Division at the Library of Congress delivered the keynote address during the opening celebration.  Designed by Bowie Gridley Architects, the renovated 7,000 sf facility houses the special collections in a specialized climate-controlled environment. The University’s special collections include archives, manuscripts, rare books and art collection. A new cooling and heating system and a separate HVAC and fire suppression systems were designed to provide improved conditions for the collections. The special collections area was also given a new face with an upgraded entryway, classrooms, reading room and offices.

For more information about the special collections, visit the Library’s website at www.library.georgetown.edu/special-collections/collections

The Woodrow Wilson Library, a branch of the Fairfax County Public Library system,  re-opened its doors to the public after  a ribbon-cutting ceremony held on March 21st.  Designed by Bowie Gridley Architects and constructed by Rand Construction Corporation, the renovated library establishes a modern, welcoming feel along Knollwood Drive in Falls Church, Virginia.   A new light-filled spine relocates the entrance closer to the parking lot and connects all the main functions of the building.  The 14,420 sf building includes improved collections and seating areas and day-lighting in all public areas.  The library boasts improved access to expanded meeting rooms, quiet and group study rooms, after-hours access to meeting room facilities, and an integrated mechanical system. Designed and constructed to be certified by the Leadership Energy and Environment Design Guidelines (LEED®), the library includes building materials with high recycled content, a roof made of reflective materials to reduce cooling costs, and an efficient air ventilation system. “The renovated Woodrow Wilson Library is a beautiful, light-filled building. It will not be long before every seat is taken and the conference rooms booked with people reading, studying, having fun, connecting with each other and just enjoying this vibrant library so valued by the community,” said Fairfax County Supervisor Penny Gross.

For more information about the Opening Celebration, visit the Library’s website at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/library/branches/ww.

The Edward St. John Student Center at McDonogh School in Owings Mills, MD, designed by Bowie Gridley Architects (BGA), has been recognized with a 2015 Award of Excellence from the Baltimore Chapter of the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC).  The Award was presented to the Mullan Contracting Company for outstanding work in the construction of the Student Center.

The Edward St. John Student Center establishes the southern edge of a new campus quadrangle, while becoming the school’s new front door. Designed as a center for campus activity, the new Student Center provides a variety of campus dining spaces, including a 650-seat grand Dining Hall, as well as facilities for student services, administration and the Visual and Performing Arts programs.

ABC (www.abcbaltimore.org) the Baltimore Chapter of the Associated Builders and Contractors, is a national non-profit construction trade association working to promote the interests of merit shop contracts.

The Mullan Contracting Company (www.mullancontracting.com) headquartered in Lutherville, MD is a full-service construction management and general contracting firm specializing in the commercial office, retail, hospitality, healthcare and institutional industries.

Bowie Gridley Architects will feature the firm’s recent architecture and planning projects as an exhibitor at the 2015 Annual Conference of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), to be held February 25-27 in Boston.  The theme of the conference “Design the Revolution: Blending Learning, Leading, and Innovation” will focus on 21st Century learning practices.  Representatives of the firm will be on hand to discuss ideas and trends in educational facility planning and design including, sustainability initiatives and design for project-based learning.  More than 4,000 independent school administrators and faculty from throughout the U.S. and abroad will attend the Conference.

Nearing its completion, the Woodrow Wilson Library in Falls Church Virginia, designed by Bowie Gridley Architects, has been recognized by the County of Fairfax Department of Public Works and Environmental Services Award of Excellence for Building Design and Construction.  BGA is also recognized for its outstanding customer service provided to Fairfax County throughout the planning, design and construction of the project. James Patterson, Director, says of the project: “The library successfully integrates the renovation of the existing facility with the new additions creating a cohesive exciting design. The creative space planning, light filled library and quality of the interior detailing enhances the patrons’ experience while meeting the current and future needs of the library and the community it serves”.

Library Director Edwin S. Clay III says “the renovated Woodrow Wilson Library will be worth the wait as it enhances the many and varied needs of our users for information, recreation and meeting space”.  The newly renovated library when completed in January will include multiple meeting rooms, modernized facilities and 24 public computers, and a sizable children’s area, while retaining its 50,000 item collection.

Bowie Gridley Architects is pleased to announce the groundbreaking for the renovation and addition to the Piedmont Environmental Council’s Headquarters in historic downtown Warrenton, Virginia.

The 5,279 sf addition will accommodate the Warrenton staff in one location for the first time in five years, allowing for a more efficient team and the ability to host meetings and workshops at their headquarters. The addition honors the historical integrity of the building, originally built as a farmhouse in 1784. The reuse of an existing structure, a high performance building envelope, a geothermal heating system, native plantings and a rain garden are a few of the many sustainable design elements included in the design reflecting the values of the Piedmont Environmental Council.

The Frank W. Ballou Senior High School replacement facility, in Ward 8, was commemorated at an official Ribbon Cutting ceremony December 17. Designed by  Bowie Gridley Architects | Perkins + Will Joint Venture, the new 365,000 sf facility replaces the original 1950’s building and takes advantage of the steeply sloping site on the Congress Heights campus. The new Ballou High School is rich with classrooms, including science and bio-tech labs, one of the largest assembly spaces in SE Washington DC, a greenhouse, an athletic wing with competition basketball gym, practice gym, fitness facilities, an eight-lane competition swimming pool, and a state-of-the-art auto-tech lab complete with lifts and paint booth. It also incorporates earth-friendly concepts; rain gardens, sun screens, low volatile organic compounds and recycled materials used in construction, daylight harvesting and photovoltaic panels. The second phase of the project will be the completion of the new football stadium and auxiliary field for multiple sports and outdoor band practice space.

Flyer for Ballou Ribbon Cutting

Bowie Gridley Architects has been recognized with another sweet award. On December 2, Bowie Gridley Architects participated in Gingertown, an annual charity event which raises money for several local and national organizations.  For the second year in row, BGA was awarded Best Overall Quality Design. The winning design was the Wonky Wonka Warehouse constructed with psychedelic colored laffy taffy.

Gingertown, founded in 2006, brings together architects, engineers and contractors from across DC to design a miniature town made entirely of gingerbread and other sweets. The candy covered structures are on display for public viewing and are later donated to local community organizations to make the holidays a little sweeter.

Richard S. Salopek, AIA, Principal, presented the McLearen Road Academy project to the DC AIA Committee on Architecture for Education “On the Boards” Social Event, held November 12, 2014  at the District Architecture Center.  The focus of the presentations was work related to the design of learning environments designed by DC firms.  Presentations were in the “Pecha Kucha 20 x 20” style, concise presentations limited to 20 seconds each for 20 images.

As Project Manager of the McLearen Road Academy project, Salopek discussed the new campus for a Pre-K-12 private co-ed day school in Fairfax County, which is currently under construction.  Designed sustainably, the new 325,000 sf facility will feature an Early Childhood Center and School for grades K-12, with separate entries and play spaces for both schools.  The school’s curriculum is highly progressive, necessitating the incorporation of the latest trends in the design for 21st Century Learning in a manner that is consistent with the school’s mission and culture.

Bowie Gridley Architects (BGA), a firm recognized for planning and design at leading independent schools internationally, will participate in the TABS 2014 Annual Conference, to be held December 4-6, 2014 at the JW Marriott in Washington, DC.

The Association of Boarding Schools (TABS) is an association of more than 300 college-preparatory boarding schools across the United States, Canada, and abroad.  The TABS annual conference consists of a series of workshops for school administrators and staff.

Principals, Calvert Bowie, AIA and William Gridley, FAIA will be attending and will provide information about the firm’s recent planning and design work for independent schools, including facilities for academics, arts, athletics, student center and residence halls, and offer insights to member schools contemplating growth and renewal of their campuses. BGA will be at Table #34.

Washington, DC – Bowie Gridley Architects is pleased to announce that Robert C. Allen, AIA has joined the firm as a Senior Project Manager.  Allen has 36 years of experience in planning and design for educational, cultural, and governmental institutions, including work with schools and universities throughout the U.S.  He received both Bachelor of Architecture and Bachelor of Science degrees from The University of Detroit and his Master of Architecture degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago.  He is a Registered Architect and is NCARB Certified.  Allen is a member of the American Institute of Architects, Washington DC Chapter and is a LEED™ Accredited Professional.

The American University McKinley School of Communication, designed by Bowie Gridley Architects (BGA), has been recognized with a NAIOP 2014 Award of Excellence.  The Award for Best Renovation and Adaptive Reuse – Historic category was presented to SIGAL Construction and BGA at the 12th Annual Awards of Excellence event held in October.

The award recognizes the renovation and addition of the historic McKinley Building to serve as a facility suited to teaching in the 21st century. The project features a multi-story addition with a modern glass façade, which is juxtaposed with the neoclassical design of the original building.  A new entry orients the building to the main campus quad.

A high-tech lab for learning, the new School of Communication reflects the changing face of media today, providing a state-of-the-art educational setting to prepare students for work in journalism, broadcast or film.  The new School of Communication features a media innovation lab, classrooms, support spaces, a 250-seat theater and high tech AV systems.

NAIOP (www.naiopmddc.org) the Commercial Real Estate Development Association, is the leading organization for developers, owners and related professionals in office, industrial, retail and mixed-use real estate.

SIGAL (www.sigal.com) established in 1977, is one of the Mid-Atlantic Region’s premier general contractors specializing in unique projects of varying complexities and a founding partner of the United States Green Building Council (USGBC).

Bowie Gridley Architects is pleased to announce the groundbreaking for the new John Thompson Jr. Intercollegiate Athletics Center. This new 136,000 square-foot, three-story facility is named for the legendary Hoyas men’s basketball coach, who led Georgetown to its first NCAA basketball championship in 1984.

The new athletic facility was designed as the training facility for the men’s and women’s basketball, soccer and lacrosse programs (NCAA Division I, Big East Conference). Bowie Gridley partnered with Populous to create a state-of-the-art training facility for the University’s signature athletic programs. Social and academic support centers were designed for the school’s scholar-athletes to promote interaction outside the traditional classroom environment and to strengthen the sense of community among athletes.

The John Thompson Jr. Athletics Center will be directly connected to the existing McDonough Gym via a linear glass “link” and was designed to achieve LEED Gold certification. Bowie Gridley worked with the Old Georgetown Board (OGB) through the zoning approvals process for this new facility on an historic campus.

The restoration and modernization of Meridian Public Charter School, designed by Bowie Gridley Architects (BGA), has been recognized by David Maloney, the State Historic Preservation Officer for the District of Columbia, with an Award of Excellence in Historic Preservation.

The award was received at a formal honor ceremony hosted by the District of Columbia Historic Preservation Office, in collaboration with the DC Preservation League, held May 15th. The award recognizes the restoration of the former the DC Harrison School, located within the U Street Historic District of Washington, DC. BGA renovated classrooms and administrative areas, replaced windows and other features to maintain the overall architectural character of the historic building, while adding a three-story component to accommodate large assembly spaces necessary for a contemporary school.

The LEED™ Certified project demonstrates how a historic school building can be respectfully updated for current academic needs through the integration of a contemporary addition that is sympathetic to the original building features.\

Washington, DC – Bowie Gridley Architects is pleased to announce that William J. Bourque has joined the firm as a Senior Project Manager.  Bourque has 28 years of experience in educational and institutional planning and design, including work with schools and universities throughout the U.S.  He received his Bachelor of Architecture degree from Carnegie-Mellon University in Pittsburgh, and is a Registered Architect in the District of Columbia.  Bourque is also a member of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

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. and abroad.

Washington, DC – Bowie Gridley Architects is pleased to announce that Dean Ventola, RA, has joined the firm as Director of Construction Administration.  A native of Damascus, Maryland, Ventola brings more than 30 years of experience in architecture and urban planning, including work throughout the Mid-Atlantic Region.

He received both a Bachelor of Architecture degree, and Bachelor of Arts (with honors) in Urban Planning from the University of Maryland, College Park.  A registered architect in DC, Maryland, Virginia and several other states, Ventola is also NCARB Certified.  He currently serves as Historic District Commissioner in Gaithersurg, MD and has volunteered as a visiting Architect/Urbanist Juror for Johns Hopkins University Carey Business School Masters in Real Estate.

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.

Bowie Gridley Architects  partnered with the Washington Architectural Foundation to host a Children’s Walking Tour of Georgetown as part of the 2014 DC Architecture Week. On Saturday, April 26th, children ages 8- to 12- years old, along with their parents,  visited several historic buildings in the Georgetown neighborhood on the tour, including the Old Stone House, The Custom House, Riggs-Riley House, Beall Mansion, and the Wheatley House. Led by staff of BGA, participants learned about the distinctive architectural features of these historic buildings. After the tour concluded, children were invited back to BGA’s offices to design and build their own structure.

Bowie Gridley Architects is pleased to announce the following promotions.  Stuart Billings, AIA, has been named a Principal of the firm. With more than 30 years of experience, he has managed numerous independent school projects, including recent projects for the George School, Mercersburg Academy, Washington International School, and Barnesville School. He is currently leading the design of the new Intercollegiate Athletic Center at Georgetown University. Billings earned his Master of Architecture degree from Rice University, and his Bachelor of Arts from Brown University. He is a Registered Architect in the District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia, and Utah, is NCARB Certified, and is a LEED Accredited Professional. He is a member of the Washington, DC Chapter of the AIA.

Dennis Findley, AIA, Associate has been named a Project Manager. A practicing architect since 1982, he joined Bowie Gridley Architects in 2006. His diverse experience includes residential, commercial mixed-use projects, and a variety of facilities for public and private schools, as well as colleges and universities. He currently serves as Project Manager for projects at the University of Virginia. In addition, he is completing a Master Plan for the Ransom Everglades School, in Coral Gables, Florida. Findley received his Bachelor of Architecture from Auburn University, and his Master of Architecture degree from Harvard University. He is a Registered Architect in Virginia, Maryland and Washington, DC, is NCARB Certified, and is a member of the Washington DC Chapter of the AIA.

Wakefield High School, located in Arlington, Va. and designed by Bowie Gridley Architects (BGA), has been recognized by the Community Appearance Alliance of Northern Virginia with a Community Appearance Award.

The new, replacement high school, which opened in September, is located along the Arlington and Fairfax County borders, at the Route 7 and Leesburg Pike Corridor. The building’s strategic location creates a community gateway providing a welcoming and open campus environment which reinforces and connects the neighborhoods of South Arlington.

Wakefield High School was designed to minimize its footprint while not overwhelming the adjacent neighborhoods by creating friendly streetscapes and pathways throughout the site. Large, park-like open spaces establish a buffer between the new school and surrounding neighborhoods.

In addition, the award recognizes the buildings attractive and useful outdoor and indoor gathering spaces, including courtyards, a rain garden, and a unique “town hall” space for gathering between classes or school events.

“The award is a testament not only to the school’s impressive design, but also to the collaboration that was sought between the school district, county, and community to deliver a 21^st century learning facility for students and the wider community, that fits contextually on the site.” said Cal Bowie, AIA, a founding principal at BGA.

The firm hosted design charrettes with the County and School planning committees, to establish goals for the new facility. Wakefield High School, a 400,000 square foot building designed to accommodate more than 1,600 students, includes an aquatics center and auditorium. It is sustainably designed and registered for LEED Gold certification.

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.

Principal Paul R. Lund, AIA LEED AP BD+C presented the Arlington Public Schools Wakefield High School project with APS Superintendent of Facilities, John Chadwick AIA RIBA at the 2014 Virginia Education Facilities Planners Annual Conference, held March 3-4, 2014 in Williamsburg, VA.

“Wakefield High School – A Community Gateway” is an hour-long presentation that informs attendees about the process of designing the replacement Wakefield through an inclusive-process to establish it as the popular community asset it is today. (Messrs) Chadwick and Lund highlighted how Arlington Public Schools worked with Bowie Gridley Architects to develop the goals and priorities for the new Wakefield High School, and how the design process achieved those goals. The presenters suggested strategies for engaging various community stakeholders in the planning and design process.

Washington, DC – Bowie Gridley Architects is pleased to announce that Pritthijit (Raja) Kundu has joined the firm as a Senior Project Architect.  Kundu brings more than 28 years of experience in educational and institutional planning and design, working with schools and universities throughout the Mid-Atlantic Region.  Kundu received his Master of Architecture degree from the University of Kansas in Lawrence and his Bachelor of Architecture degree from Jadavpur University in Calcutta, India.  He is NCARB certified, a LEED Accredited Professional, and 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. and abroad.

Bowie Gridley Architects (BGA), a firm recognized for planning and design at leading independent schools throughout the U.S. and internationally, will exhibit at the 2014 NAIS Annual Conference, to be held February 26-28, 2014 at the Swan and Dolphin Resort in Orlando, Fl.

BGA will feature recent planning and design work for independent schools, including facilities for academics, arts, athletics and student life, and offer insights to member schools contemplating growth and renewal of their campuses. BGA representatives, including a principal, will be at booth number 341, to discuss facility planning needs.

The National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) will bring together more than 3,500 heads of school, advancement officers, deans, teachers, and other school leaders, from independent schools around the world.

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.

After a short eight months of design and construction, St. Anne’s Belfield School opened its new Lee-DuVal Dining Hall this week with a celebratory lunch for students, faculty and staff.

The new dining hall seats the entire upper school community, and includes a generous outdoor bluestone terrace with sitting and eating areas. The existing kitchen and servery were also renovated and expanded, including a café for casual eating and gathering.

The new facility at the school’s Greenway Rise (Upper School) Campus contributes to a sense of community while enabling student-faculty interaction outside the traditional classroom environment. Bowie Gridley Architects (BGA) partnered with English Construction to deliver the project using a design-build process that allowed for a completion schedule that was significantly shorter than typical projects.

Bowie Gridley Architects (BGA) has maintained a strong relationship with the Charlottesville-based school, previously developing master plans for both the Lower/Middle School and Upper School campuses.  In addition, BGA designed a new Lower/Middle school that opened in 2010 and a new Upper School Student Commons that was completed in September 2013 at the co-ed independent school.

Bowie Gridley Architects has been recognized for one of its “sweetest” contributions to architecture, yet. On December 4, the firm’s participation in Gingertown, a charity event to raise money for several local and national organizations, was awarded Best Overall Design Quality for its “McDots” burger joint construction.

Gingertown, founded in 2006, brings together architectural and engineering firms from across DC to design a miniature town made entirely of gingerbread and other sweets. More than 50 teams participated in the event. Twelve BGA staff members participated in the design and assembly of McDots, one of several “projects” designed to correspond with the “World Games” theme. Among the other buildings included in 2013 Gingertown were: the Peeps Arena, Atlas Theatres, and Mounds Ski Run & Half Pipe.

Washington, DC –Bowie Gridley Architects is pleased to announce that Ben Russin, AIA has joined the firm as a Project Architect.  Russin brings more than 15 years of experience in educational and institutional planning and design, including project experience in Washington, DC, Seattle, WA and Cambridge, MA. He received his Masters in Architecture from Harvard Graduate School of Design and his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Haverford College.  He 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. and abroad.

The University of Mary Washington – Residence Halls Renovation Project, designed by Bowie Gridley Architects, has been recognized with a Merit Award for Contextual Design from the Virginia Society AIA.  The project entailed the renovation of Randolph and Mason Halls, and sympathetic additions which transformed two 1950’s vintage structures into a true living-learning environment, integrating academic uses, faculty and staff housing with student housing.

Presented at Architecture Exchange East, held in Richmond on November 8th, the award recognizes outstanding architecture that perceptibly reflects the history, culture, and physical environment of the place in which it stands and that, in turn, contributes to the function, beauty, and meaning of its larger context.   The Context Jury, chaired by R. Randall Vosbeck, FAIA, cited the successful integration of the “Link” design with the existing structures and the traditional style of the campus as the element they found most notable.  BGA Project Manager Leslie Louden, AIA, LEED AP,  commented, “the addition is scaled to have sufficient presence on the quad to draw students in without overwhelming the existing residence halls.”

The project is among 29 projects recognized for design excellence in 2013 to be exhibited at the Virginia Center for Architecture through January 5, 2014.

The Meridian Public Charter School Project, designed by Bowie Gridley Architects (BGA), has been recognized with a Design Excellence Merit Award in the Historic Resources Category from the Washington Chapter AIA.  The Award, which was presented at the Annual Chapter Design Awards event  in October, recognizes the restoration of the former the DC Harrison School, located within the U Street Historic District of Washington, DC.  BGA renovated classrooms and administrative areas, replaced windows and other features to maintain the overall architectural character of the historic building, while adding a three-story component to accommodate large assembly spaces necessary for a contemporary school.   The LEED™ Silver certified project demonstrates how a historic school building can be respectfully updated for current academic needs through the integration of a contemporary addition that is sympathetic to the original building features.

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.

Bowie Gridley Architects (BGA) is exhibiting at the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) 2013 Fall Meeting, on Sunday, October 27th at the J.W. Marriott Hotel in Washington, DC.  BGA is showcasing the recently completed Clinical Simulation labs at the University of Virginia School of Nursing. Principal Paul Lund will be on hand throughout the day to discuss recent trends in design of nursing education facilities, including the UVA simulation labs.

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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.

Bowie Gridley Architects, a firm recognized for planning and design at leading independent schools internationally, will participate in the SAIS-MISBO 2013 Annual Conference, to be held October 27^th-29^th at the Marriott Buckhead Hotel & Conference Center in Atlanta, GA.

SAIS (Southern Associate of Independent Schools, Inc.) and MISBO (Mid-South Independent School Business Officers) have teamed to offer an overlapping conference this year to allow all types of school decision makers to benefit from the conferences programming together.

BGA will provide information about the firm’s recent planning and design work for independent schools, including facilities for academics, arts, athletics and student life, and offer insights to member schools contemplating growth and renewal of their campuses. Bowie Gridley Architects will be in Booth #60.

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.

Bowie Gridley Architects is proud to announce the opening of Wakefield High School – Arlington County’s newest 21^st century learning environment. The new 400,000sf, three-story replacement facility is the culmination of extensive planning and design that began in 2006.  Various members of the Arlington County, Virginia community worked with the BGA and Arlington Public Schools (APS) team to create a flexible and sustainable environment that supports academic achievement for more than 1600 students.

A team of architects, engineers and specialty consultants worked together with the APS and the County to create a universally accessible, technology-rich learning and recreational environment for the entire community. Smart boards and projectors located throughout academic classrooms support new teaching methodologies.   Special “nodes” with display and exhibit facilities related to various academic subject areas and academic neighborhoods encourage students to gather informally outside classrooms, while providing a venue for collaborative project-based learning.  At the heart of the academic portion of the building is the science node directly off of the 16 science labs.  A 635-seat auditorium, a 180 seat studio theater and related rehearsal and studio spaces accommodate a variety of lectures, gatherings, performances and visual arts programs. Athletic facilities include a competition gymnasium with “seating in the round” for all-school events, and a variety of weight training, wrestling and related athletic instructional and support facilities.  A state-of-the-art aquatic center with separate pools for competition, diving, and special swimming instruction allows for school and independent community use. In addition to academic spaces, the new facility features a cafeteria and café areas, a large library/media center, a “town hall commons” with an adjacent outdoor courtyard, an academic courtyard, and an outdoor amphitheater —  all designed to enhance learning through interactive projects and social activities, in keeping with current educational theory.

The sustainability goal of the design was to reduce the building’s energy consumption and the water runoff from the nearby 4 Mile Run.  A high performance building envelope and rooftop-mounted photovoltaics and evacuated tubes, 100% geothermal system, daylight harvesting among other features maximize energy efficiency of the building, which consumes 50% less energy than a typical building of its size. A video dashboard monitor in the commons allows students and visitors to understand how each system contributes to the overall energy efficiency of the building.  Rainwater is collected off the roof and parking lots into a 255,000 gallon cistern and used to flush toilets and irrigate the new Phase II baseball and softball fields.  The building slated to receive LEED Gold Certification.

BGA Principal, Paul Lund, AIA, LEED AP noted “With the completion of the first phase of the project, the community has achieved a new milestone in its goal of creating a high performance learning environment in Arlington County, connecting together neighborhoods with safe pedestrian and bicycle circulation routes, and creating one of the most energy efficient buildings in Arlington.”

A dedication of the new Wakefield High School is planned to be held on September 22.

Founded in 1981, Bowie Gridley Architects specializes in work for institutions of community significance – academic and student life facilities for major schools and universities, 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.

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) has announced that Bowie Gridley Architects’ renovation of Mason and Randolph Halls and contextual addition at the University of Mary Washington, in Fredericksburg, VA has earned LEED© Gold Certification. The project has transformed the traditional dormitory into a vibrant living-learning center.  The addition is designed in a traditional vocabulary compatible with the existing Georgian style.  It provides a new focal point for a prominent campus quadrangle and includes a variety of informal gathering spaces and seminar rooms that are shared by residents and the larger campus community.  Renovations to the c.1952 residence halls include all new life safety, integrated technology, key-less entry, and mechanical and electrical systems upgrades.  Resident rooms and faculty apartments are interspersed with lounge and study venues, bringing a fresh new look to prominent collaboration and relaxation spaces.  BGA Project Manager, Leslie W. Louden, AIA, a LEED© Accredited Professional, noted that “sustainability was woven throughout the design, from the re-purposing of the original structure to maximizing space utilization by combining living and learning in one facility.”  Features, including murals on corridor walls depicting Chesapeake Bay tributaries, site signage, and the University’s  first interactive energy-use dashboard, serve as teaching tools, connecting students’ daily experiences with a deeper understanding of the connection between their way of life and the environment.

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.

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.

Bowie Gridley Architects’ recent renovation and expansion of Dolley Madison Library in McLean, VA was recognized with a Jurors’ Special Citation by The Northern Virginia Chapter of The American Institute of Architects on Thursday, June 6. The award program recognizes outstanding architecture in the Northern Virginia area. The Juror’s Special Citation is awarded to projects that bear an exceptional aspect or detail that the jury feels represents excellence which deserves specific honor.

The building, completed in May 2011, was honored for its curving floor-to-ceiling glass wall composed of a staggered pattern of vertical and horizontal mullions with wood fins and louvers. The wall is designed to evoke the park’s trees and leafy canopy. The reading room floor level is raised above the adjacent forest floor, creating the impression of being in a tree house within the forest. The project was also awarded Gold Level LEED Certification by the USGBC for its sustainable design features, including a green roof, efficient and renewable energy systems and an environmental education program.

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Founded in 1981, Bowie Gridley Architects specializes in work for institutions of community significance – academic and student life facilities for major schools and universities, 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.

Dennis Findley, AIA won election to the governing board of the McLean Community Center for a three-year term in city-wide voting that began on April 8 and ended with Election Day at the annual McLean Day celebration on May 18. Findley won one of three seats up for election on the nine-member board.

Findley, a resident of McLean and long-time member of the AIA, was a Democratic candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives in Virginia’s 10th Congressional District in 2010.  A Senior Project Architect at Bowie Gridley Architects in Washington, D.C., he currently serves on the Virginia Board of People with Disabilities, having been appointed in 2009 by then Gov. Tim Kaine (D), and reappointed in 2012 by Gov. Bob McDonnell (R).

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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 – Daniel Rollet, AIA, NCARB recently joined Bowie Gridley Architects.  A graduate of The University Illinois at Urbana-Champaign where he received both Bachelor of Science in Architecture and Master of Architecture degrees, Rollet has served as a Project Architect for a number of private institutions and universities since joining the firm in 2013.   Rollet 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 in our nation’s capital and works with clients throughout the U.S.

Bowie Gridley’s recent design of HHMI’s headquarters expansion in Chevy Chase, MD was featured as a cover story and 6-page spread in the most recent issue of INFORM: Architecture + Design in the Mid-Atlantic. INFORM is published by the Virginia Society of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). Click here for the online version.

The George School in Newtown, Pennsylvania will begin construction this spring on a new 100,000 sf athletic center, the school’s second major project with Bowie Gridley Architects after the LEED Gold Certified Mollie Dodd Anderson Library was completed in fall 2009. The new center is set to open in fall 2014.

The facility will feature an 8-lane, 25-yard pool, a performance gym with double basketball court, a practice gym and fitness center, and locker rooms and other support facilities. Many environmentally sound design components will go into the facility, which is designed to achieve LEED certification. The center will include a vegetative roof for improved storm water management, water and air purification, and a reduction in energy consumption; as well as native plant gardens, rain gardens in the enlarged parking lot, and windows that maximize day-lighting to reduce electrical use. Additionally, solar hot water collectors will pre-heat water for boilers, radiant flooring will provide energy-efficient heating, and the new pool will use an air dehumidification system to heat the pool and to lower the use of chemicals needed to treat the water.

“This new project is another step towards our goal of a leadership position in environmental sustainability,” says Head of School Nancy Starmer. “I’m very excited about what this building project will mean for the well-being of our students, teachers, and coaches” she adds.

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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.

Bowie Gridley Architects featured the firm’s recent architecture and planning projects as an exhibitor at the 2013 Annual Conference of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS),  held February 27 through March 1, 2013 in Philadelphia. Representatives of the firm were on hand to discuss ideas and trends in educational facility planning and design, including sustainability initiatives and design for project-based learning. More than 4,000 independent school administrators and faculty from throughout the U.S. and abroad attended the Conference, which marked the 50th anniversary of NAIS.

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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.

Lehrman, LLC, a privately held New York-based real estate firm, has set a February 2013 opening for its new DC office in Friendship Heights. The new office is the result of collaboration between the firm’s founder, Susan Lehrman, and Bowie Gridley Architects’ team. The design provides space for five staff, as well as a conference room and support space. With an emphasis on philanthropic efforts, the office serves as both a professional, contemporary business place and a comfortable, welcoming venue for receiving guests.

BGA’s team capitalized on the openness of the floor plan, using glass partitions and individual control of the interior through dimmable lighting and temperature control features. Additionally, BGA was responsible for the office move, as well as all IT, telecommunications, furniture and finishes for the project.

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Founded in 1981, Bowie Gridley Architects specializes in work for institutions of community significance – academic and student life facilities for major schools and universities, 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.

“Why Live on Campus in the Internet Age?”—a presentation exploring how learning experiences can be more fully integrated with residence life—has been accepted by the Society for College and University Planning for its 2013 Mid-Atlantic regional conference. The conference, entitled “Academic Relevance—Is Higher Education Still the Gateway for Opportunity in America?” will be held April 7-9, 2013 at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.

The presentation features the transformation of two residence halls at the University of Mary Washington (UMW) in Fredericksburg, VA into a 21st Century learning venue through renovations and additions designed by Bowie Gridley Architects. BGA Project Manager Leslie W. Louden, AIA, LEED AP, Associate; and Christine Porter, UMW’s Director of Residence Life, will discuss how UMW and BGA collaborated to establish new operational precedents for integrating academic and residential experiences and promoting students’ awareness of the impact of individual behavior on the environment.

“The project is UMW’s first to include an energy dashboard that students can access through the campus network, with live data on residents’ resource consumption as well as instances of sustainability manifested through the design. It complements ongoing programs emphasizing the UMW community’s power to influence positive change through the way they live and learn, and will serve as a prototype for future projects throughout the campus,” said Louden.

More detail on the presentation, as well as the full schedule for the conference, at this link.

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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.