The iconic 1970s-era building has been transformed into a community resource, the project team says. The facility contains fabricator labs for learning skills—such as carpentry and 3D printing—sound booths, offices for other District of Columbia services and a new fifth floor that features a two-level performance and exhibition space. Restoration of the historic facade and replacement of exterior glazing rejuvenated the beauty of the original design, reviving a  downtown landmark, the team says. 

Creating the new open interior layout required a year of demolition and lead paint and asbestos abatement. In removing the original four cores, non-contributing masonry walls and unnecessary floor-to-ceiling stacks, the project team salvaged casework, granite pavers, furniture and historic brick to be repurposed throughout the building.