Location
Washington D.C.
Original Construction
1801
Construction Cost
$900,000
Size
10,000 square feet
Completion Date
2010
National Historic Register

The American Institute of Architects, AIA, is headquartered on a historic campus in Washington D.C. which showcases the diverse possibilities in architectural historic preservation. 

The site is anchored by the Octagon House. Built in 1801, the Octagon House was a young building when the Treaty of Ghent was signed there in 1814, ending the War of 1812.  In 1889 the AIA took residence and in 1902 it was the first American building to be the focus of a major preservation effort in which “the architectural importance was paramount”  (George McCue, The Octagon, (Washington: American Institute of Architects Foundation, 1976), 73.)  (is this notation in correct format?)  In 1973 the AIA built a new office building adjacent to the historic Octagon House, creating a campus where the Octagon House served as a museum. 

In 2007, the AIA kicked off an ambitious project with the goal of creating a sustainable workplace that, while supporting the latest technology and office functions, is environmentally responsible.  HopkinsBurns Design Studio was commissioned as the Historic Preservation consultant for this multifaceted and innovative project.  As such, HopkinsBurns created a Cultural Landscape and Historic Structure Report and an Existing Conditions Evaluation.  These reports guided the 2010 Octagon House renovation design, ensuring that the building would be efficient and functional in the 21st century while respecting and retaining its heritage.

“With sustainability being a key element in the building renewal project a major goal of the Octagon preservation effort was incorporation the elements of environmental stewardship without compromising the historic legacy of the building and its landmark status.”