Major Project Underway in Nation’s Capital

WASHINGTON — A major project is now underway in Washington D.C., which will occupy more than 650,000 square feet. Washington, D.C. -based Skanska USA Commercial Development Inc. will serve as the developer for a portion of the project, working with Grosvenor Americas (GA), and San Francisco-based Gensler Architects for the design.

The project, a mixed-use development on D.C.’s Capitol Riverfront district, will include an 11-story, 224,000-square-foot office building with 11,000 square feet of additional retail space on the ground floor. Although the building is large, it plans to save money due to the intricate green elements in the design.

The building will feature a roof top terrace and green roof and is shooting for LEED’s highest rating — LEED Platinum.

Along with the green roof, the building will be equipped with energy piles; regenerative elevators that capture electricity from downward movement; water filtration and water storage on-site; carbon footprinting; waterless urinals; water-efficient fixtures; tenant submetering; green power; low emitting materials/VOC; daylighting; green housekeeping; and access to D.C.’s public transportation system, Metro.

The project is still in its initial design phases, according to Rob Ward, executive vice president, Skanska USA Commercial Development Inc. in Washington D.C., however, “design is progressing and the project could be ready to start as soon as mid-2013,” said Ward.

Since the project is just on its way a total development cost is not available to date.

Designing any building to meet LEED Platinum certification is a challenge, let alone a 650,000-square-foot mixed-development project.

“The challenges associated with a LEED Platinum certification include cost/benefit analysis for additional construction costs associated with a wide-range of green elements; identifying mechanical systems that deliver the highest level of efficiency while balancing cost; tenant understanding of the value and benefit of a LEED building; locating suitable materials on a regional basis to achieve LEED goals; and using cutting-edge technologies and the challenge to find local companies with experience with design/install/various systems,” explained Ward.

The challenges may seem heavy now, but the positive aspects of the project are sure to out-weigh any frustrations.

“The flourishing Capitol Riverfront District provides one of the most exciting opportunities for development in Washington D.C.,” said Ward. “This mixed-use development promises to offer great value to its growing community and to local businesses, and will ensure that the area continues to thrive.”

The project will also offer apartment spaces, retail and hotel development by GA, while Skanska will provide work on the office building. GA has a long history of developing mix-use properties that cities can utilize for decades.

“Grosvenor, which has been developing dynamic urban neighborhoods for over 300 years, is pleased to bring its ‘Living Cities’ vision to the exciting Capitol Riverfront district of Washington D.C.,” said Don Capobres, senior vice president of development at GA.

The project will allow continued growth and success for residents and tourists of the nation’s capital.