On August 29, 2024, the ribbon was cut, marking the grand reopening of the newly modernized Garfield Elementary School in Washington, DC’s Ward 8. This $60.5 million project transformed 70,300 square feet into a vibrant, sustainable learning environment for 363 students, blending the historic character of the original structure with contemporary additions.
The modernization includes innovative sustainability features such as geothermal wells, bio-retention areas, and advanced stormwater management systems. The revitalized school also boasts flexible, open classrooms tailored to dynamic learning. Among the new facilities are Ward 8’s first teaching kitchen and a brand-new gym, making the school a hub for both education and community activities.
The updated educational spaces include physical education areas, dining services, discovery commons, small group rooms, and resource rooms—each thoughtfully designed to support special projects, collaboration, and individual instruction. Aiming for LEED Gold Certification, the school further incorporates green roof credits, Energy Star Certification, and NetZero strategies, reflecting a strong commitment to sustainability.
SK&A Structural Engineers is honored to have served as the Structural Engineer of Record for this significant Design-Build project. Additionally, our Repair + Restoration division conducted structural and facade condition assessments and oversaw the careful repair of the historic building. This modernization ensures that Garfield Elementary will continue to inspire and educate future generations, building on its rich legacy.
Congratulations to the entire Design and Construction team, including Studios Architecture, MCN Build, and Brailsford & Dunlavey, Inc.
Sources:
- MCN Build. (2024). Garfield Elementary School. https://www.mcnbuild.com/project/garfield-elementary-school/
- DC Department of General Services. (2024 Aug 29). https://www.linkedin.com/posts/dc-department-of-general-services_dgsdelivers-dgsbuilds-dgsdelivers-activity-7234959622745325570-Hf1j
- Riley, Derek. Brailsford & Dunlavey. Photo. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/deril2_this-morning-we-held-the-ribbon-cutting-activity-7234990413332254720-CdgR
