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Dorothy I. Height Elementary School
This all-electric, Net Zero Ready school blends smart MEP design with long-term sustainability—powered by a geothermal system and engineered for the future.

Project Details

93,000 SF
CGS Architects
2024
Washington, DC
D.C. Department of General Services D.C. Public Schools

Project Achievements

  • LEED Platinum Certification
  • 2025 AEI Professional Project Awards, Best Overall Project (less than $100 million)
  • 2025 AEI Professional Project Awards, Architectural Engineering Award of Excellence
  • 2025 AEI Professional Project Awards, Electrical System Design Award of Excellence
  • 2025 AEI Professional Project Awards, Lighting Systems Design Award of Merit
  • 2025 AEI Professional Project Awards, Mechanical Systems Design Award of Excellence
  • 2025 AEI Professional Project Awards, Renovation Award of Merit
  • 2025 AEI Professional Project Awards, Repair and Rehabilitation Award of Excellence.

Project Description

The project consisted of renovation and construction of a new addition to create approximately 93,000 SF of modernized learning space, including a new cafeteria, lobby, and double-height areas. This includes integrating two previously unconnected buildings through construction of a new glass atrium.

The project features a geothermal system consisting of 100 wells drilled 650 feet deep for heating and cooling throughout the project’s site in an effort to meet the Department’s sustainability goals and requirements.

The ventilation system uses water-sourced energy recovery units with the Enverid system, reducing outside air needs by 40%. Limited rooftop HVAC equipment supports future solar panel installations, aligning with the Net Zero Ready design. The facility is fully electric, with natural gas used only for the generator.

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