The new high-performing, flagship high school was designed to facilitate academic excellence for students in Washington, DC. DGS’ Benjamin Banneker High School provides a 21st-century learning environment to accommodate an increased enrollment of 800 students by 2025. The design envisioned a series of interconnected spaces for learning, discovery, and engagement. The project’s program included an open atrium and learning commons; classrooms with ample natural light; gym, auditorium, and cafeteria for active community use; collaboration areas to enhance communication and activate interdisciplinary learning; coffee shop, science labs, studio and performing arts spaces, and outdoor learning areas. The building is topped with an intensive green roof.

Engenium Group plumbing engineers coordinated new domestic water service, water distribution (CW and HW), and provided design for new domestic hot water heaters. Additionally, our team designed and provided layout for the storm water system, which included roof drains and distribution within the building. Fire protection design included a new fire suppression system, the coordination of new fire water service, and design for the primary fire suppression infrastructure (fire pump and sprinkler zones).

Banneker High School was designed to be the first Net Zero Energy school in Washington, DC. The high-performance learning environment serves as a teaching tool for staff and students, while positively supporting their health and education.

Photos by Joseph Romeo Photography