EHDD completes net-zero AIA Global Campus in Washington DC
The American Institute of Architects' new home in Washington DC has been designed by San Francisco-based EHDD to be "one of the first fully decarbonised major renovations in the US".
The AIA Global Campus for Architecture & Design is part of a net-zero campus that also includes an outdoor courtyard, the AIA Design Shop, Grace Street Coffee Roasters, and The Octagon Museum – the AIA's former home that now accommodates the Architecture Foundation.
Located at 1735 New York Avenue NW, close to the White House and National Mall, the newly retrofitted brutalist building hosts programs, exhibits, walking tours and workshops aimed at engaging the public to discover architecture.
EHDD was responsible for the architecture and interiors for the project, while Hartman-Cox Architects served as the on-site architect.
"AIA's newly renovated building is one of the first fully decarbonised major renovations in the US," said a statement from the organisation. "This adaptive reuse project showcases a cost-effective, scalable, replicable approach to decarbonisation."
On track to achieve LEED Platinum status, the building's sustainable features include an external photovoltaic sunshade system, a cool roof system, insulated glazing and LED lighting with occupancy sensors.
Biophilic elements such as interior planting, the use of natural materials and access to daylight are all key elements incorporated by the design team.
The first floor of the building includes a large exhibition space, where original concrete floors are exposed and a wood-lined ceiling integrates a track lighting system.
In the lobby, a wall of dark stone is etched with every recipient of The Architecture Firm Award, from Skidmore Owings & Merrill in 1962 to the 2025 winner LPA Design Studios.
Another expanse of wall similarly lists the names of every AIA Gold Medal winner, including last year's laureate Deborah Berke.
A faceted, wood-wrapped reception desk welcomes visitors, with the AIA's circular logo mounted and backlit on the white wall behind.
Upstairs, office spaces feature blocky, modular furniture upholstered in bright fabrics, while bold hues are applied to the walls of glass-fronted meeting rooms.
"The building showcases the profound impact of architecture and design on our communities, society, and the world," said AIA. "We invite everyone to experience the transformative power of design firsthand."
The AIA's mission is to drive improvement in the built environment through setting industry standards, promoting climate action and elevating the role of architecture in society.
Last year, the organisation denounced an executive order signed by president Donald Trump that aims to promote classical architecture, and released a study stating that only six per cent of architects are regularly using artificial intelligence.
The photography is by Judy Davis.
Project credits:
Project executive: Stephen T Ayers
Architecture and interiors: EHDD
On-site architect: Hartman-Cox Architects
General contractor: Turner Construction Company
Landscape architect: Hood Design Studio
Decarbonisation expert and MEP: Point Energy Innovations
MEP: Affiliated Engineers
Client representative: Cresa
Civil engineer: Sherwood Design Engineers
Structural engineer (building) and fire code: Holmes Structures
Lighting/AV/acoustics/security/IT: ARUP
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