A central feature of the design concept is a curved, arcaded three level high structure ~ the Garden Wall~ which contains the site towards the north and west. The purpose of the structure is two-fold: to define both the street edge of the site and enclose a secure one-acre garden.
Smaller floor plates organize offices, workshops, services, and auditoria into three buildings set around a central atrium.
Two bar buildings, each measuring 52-feet in width, are arranged as an L-shape with an entrance at the corner. A third, crescent-shaped building placed within the L-shaped bar, completes the atrium.
The landscape park is an oasis for employees and a private, secure amenity.
Public and private gardens are integrated through the protective arcade, opening up the building to the city.
As the national headquarters for a government agency with the highest security requirements, the Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives building balances protection and openness, becoming a catalyst for urban renewal and rejuvenation in the surrounding district. The building contains general office space, extensive training facilities, an auditorium and auxiliary services.
Notwithstanding security setback requirements, the complex engages and animates the surrounding street edges. The entrance is positioned across from a Metro station on the southeast corner. Retail facilities line 2nd Street to the east, and a trellised garden wall defines N Street to the south. A three-storey planted arcade crescent contains the site to the north and west, enclosing an internal garden and inconspicuously serving as a security barrier.
Auxiliary elements such as loading docks and an inspection booth are integrated into the overall fabric of buildings and garden walls. Maximum flexibility is achieved through the provision of a technical subfloor for the distribution of data and mechanical services. The office space consists of efficient floor plates surrounding a large atrium, thus affording daylight for all workspaces.
The double skin serves as a layer of blast protection, as well as a primary feature reducing energy usage. Features of the LEED Silver Certified project include the double wall glass façade, with a natural ventilated system as well as green roofs to reduce heat island effects.
Site Plan.
A three-story planted arcade crescent contains the site towards the north and west, encloses a 4,500-square-meter internal garden, and serves invisibly as a security barrier.
View to north-facing facade.
