ASLA Center for Landscape Architecture Opens!

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LAC1The ASLA Center for Landscape Architecture in Washington, D.C. has opened! O’Dell Engineering proudly sponsored this state-of-the-art project. Located in Washington, D.C.’s historic Chinatown, the ASLA Center for Landscape Architecture is a true embodiment of the core design principles of the profession. The 12,000 square foot building underwent a massive renovation to turn the space into a beautiful environment conducive for creative work. The center, designed to LEED Platinum and WELL™ Silver building standards, provides flexible space for exhibitions, educational programs, ASLA’s meeting needs, and potential staff growth.

The Sierra Chapter of ASLA California graciously made a $15,000 donation to the center and sought out additional funding from member firms to further bolster support for the project. O’Dell happily supported the endeavor as an 1899 Society sponsor. Many O’Dell staff, including Principal Landscape Architect Chad Kennedy, are heavily involved with the Sierra Chapter. The firm advocates strongly for the advancement of the landscape architecture profession and is dedicated to supporting the industry’s growth.

The center was designed with a focus on energy efficiency, comfort, and sustainability. Key elements of the design include an emphasis on connectivity, water, light, energy, materials, and waste. The street level features a state-of-the-art meeting, reception, and exhibition space ideal for events, educational programs, and presentations alike. A four-story atrium complements the existing award-winning green roof. A 700-gallon cistern located on the ground floor captures and reuses stormwater runoff to irrigate a new outdoor patio space. Exposure to natural light, a critical element of WELL™ Silver building standards, is addressed through a new rooftop skylight. In addition to the light distributed throughout the space via the skylight, a cutting-edge system of melanopic lights at work stations will provide additional access to the benefits of natural light. Materials and furniture used in the center also support the eco-friendly design. A natural color palette encompasses the décor, which features organic or recycled building materials and low-emitting paints, coatings, adhesives, and sealants.

O’Dell is thrilled to have been involved in the evolution of this important and innovative project. We look forward to the continued growth and advancement of the landscape architecture industry nationwide.

For more information on O’Dell Engineering’s landscape architecture department, please visit our website here.

For more information on the ASLA Center for Landscape Architecture or to make a donation to the project, please visit their website here.

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