Living Deanwood_systems.jpg

LIVING DEANWOOD

Washington, DC.  2015 DC Affordable Living Design Competition.  Partnership with Chris Winnike, AIA and Eric Hull.

Living Deanwood addresses the city’s critical need for new affordable housing which was recognized as the primary goal identified in the community engagement process. All ten affordable homes have three bedrooms to serve families which have been underserved in the recent housing boom in Washington D.C. The rain gardens and pervious paving provide beautiful open spaces and mimic natural hydrological conditions. This low-impact-development strategy naturally manages storm water, which is a growing challenge in the city. Additionally, rooftop rainwater collection and cisterns are used to create a net-zero water system.

Living Deanwood is designed to reflect the character of neighboring rowhouse architecture and is in walking distance from a key commercial node outlined in the neighborhood plan. The ample street parking in the neighborhood eliminates the need for parking on site and a new bikeshare station offers another transportation option for the residents. Living Deanwood also includes a new community center, neighborhood park, and community gardens.  These community amenities will house financial education and health classes which are being developed based on recommendations from the community engagement process.

The site utilizes shared resources to maximize efficiencies and achieve economies of scale. For example, the 8 kw polycrystalline photovoltaic, roof mounted array paired with microinverters generates enough power for net-positive energy.  The project also addresses global sustainability goals by reducing the embodied carbon footprint, promoting responsible industry, and prioritizing local materials.

Awards + Recognition