Architects: KGP design
Location: Washington D.C, USA
Project area: 1,750 sq. ft.
Photographs: Courtesy of KGP design
At the cusp of a livable cities movement, this facility is a highly visible catalyst promoting bicycle use and alternative transportation options by providing secure parking, rental, and retail uses. At the doorstep of Washington’s major transportation hub, Union Station, the sleek veiled form reflects the technology of its contents while complimenting its eminent Beaux Art neighbors.
Echoing a bicycle wheel’s elegance and efficiency, arched steel tubes are stabilized by a series of “spokes” or stainless steel tie rods in order to lighten up the structure. An energy efficient “skin” optimizes transparency while further moderating temperature. Further minimizing heat gain, denser graduated ceramic frit low-e glazing, opens up progressively to views of the plaza level.
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- © Courtesy of KGP design
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- © Courtesy of KGP design
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- © Courtesy of KGP design
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- © Courtesy of KGP design
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- © Courtesy of KGP design
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- © Courtesy of KGP design
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- © Courtesy of KGP design
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- © Courtesy of KGP design
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- © Courtesy of KGP design
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- © Courtesy of KGP design
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- site plan and elevations
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- elevations
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- diagram 01
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- diagram 02
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- diagram 03
The form is cool…
I have seen this in person and it is refreshing in the context of most DC. The diagrams are great and logical.
Looks like the architect has focused on the envelope and its details but didn’t care too much about plan layout and user comfort. It looks too packed, just thinking of rush-hour..
It’s so Calatrava’s style…