High Schools, Performing Arts
Ellington School of the Arts Concept
As part of an invitation-only design competition, Fanning Howey teamed with Consultant Architect Pei Cobb Freed & Partners to design an $80 million modernization of the historic Ellington School of the Arts. The 100,000-square-foot addition brings a modern twist to the classical revival architecture of the Snowden Ashford building and includes performance halls, rehearsal space, recording studios, dance studios, instrumental and vocal practice rooms, museum studies and visual arts studios, as well as core academic classrooms and physical education facilities. The design concept presents a vibrant student commons that anchors these spaces and provides access to small theater venues.
Associate firm: Pei Cobb Freed & Partners
Expertise
Client
District of Columbia Public Schools
Location
Washington, D.C.
Scope
100,000 SF
Challenges
Bring innovative, creative learning environments to the classical architecture of the Snowden Ashford building.
ELLINGTON
ELLINGTON SCHOOL OF THE ARTS
A metal and glass-clad addition brings a modern twist to the classical revival architecture of the Snowden Ashford building.
ELLINGTON SCHOOL OF THE ARTS
The design concept presents a vibrant student commons that anchors the building and provides access to small theater venues.
ELLINGTON SCHOOL OF THE ARTS
At the heart of the concept is a central gathering stair to serve as a hub for student activity and presentations.
ELLINGTON SCHOOL OF THE ARTS
Natural daylighting throughout the school makes for an inspiring learning environment and creative atmosphere.
ELLINGTON SCHOOL OF THE ARTS
Movable furniture, whiteboards and glass operable walls make classrooms completely flexible, and capable of supporting a limitless range of activities.
ELLINGTON SCHOOL OF THE ARTS
A highlight of the concept is a state-of-the-art auditorium for student productions and performances.
ELLINGTON SCHOOL OF THE ARTS
Glass is used extensively throughout to encourage collaboration between the arts.
The design concept expresses Ellington’s passion for the arts through the creation of a diverse array of performance and instructional spaces conducive to the academic and cultural mission of the school.
