Designed by Davis Brody Bond, the $5 million “gateway pavilion” is expected to be built at a fenced-in plaza fronting Martin Luther King Avenue SE in Congress Heights. The designs depict a low-slung multi-purpose structure to be built in a 22-foot high, central area that will form a dramatic backdrop to the plaza. The pavilion will feature various terraced lawns, sloping paths and plenty of space for food trucks and kiosks.
The design has incorporated numerous sustainable elements such as a rainwater harvesting system through which rainwater will be collected in a cistern to supply water for irrigation and restrooms. Various recycled or renewable materials such as canvas, burlap, “grasscrete,” and reclaimed wood would be used throughout the space.
The new pavilion will offer an outdoor recreation and performance space on top and a community gathering space below. As per the city officials, the new pavilion will serve as a community gathering and dining space. It will also offer a farmers’ market and other weekend arts and cultural events.
It is part of a massive redevelopment project on the St. Elizabeths campus. The project is collaboration between the construction firm Kadcon, the engineering firm Robert Silman Associates and architects Davis Brody Bond. The project is expected to complete in 2013.
