Organization of American States

The GGA design for the Organization of American States (OAS) celebrates the Latin American culture through a comprehensive architectural modernization and renovation of the General Secretariat building located on F Street, NW, in the heart of Washington, DC. The overall renovation included the main entrance and building lobby: GGA partially removed a floor slab on the first floor, and connected a dramatic, naturally-lit, two-story reception space with a monumental staircase to the lower concourse level. Modern, international style graces the building through the interplay of sustainable Honduran mahogany, direct from Central America, with the limestone building-envelope. Spacious corridors, collectively dubbed “The Boulevard,” featuring the OAS’ extensive art collection, bring cultural zest to employee circulation and impromptu conversations. Substantial structural alterations granted the OAS freedom to expand its formal conferencing area into a state-of-the-art Conference Center, complete with simultaneous translation, interpretation and full audio-visual capabilities.

Elevator upgrades were completed, and a sprinkler system and new fire alarm system were designed.

A gas-powered generator was also installed to support emergency power for the life safety systems, lighting, alarm, and security controls, as well as to power the 1,200 SF LAN room for 24 hours. The electrical service was increased to add 8 watts per square foot for power and 4 watts for lighting while new switchgear was added and transformers were upgraded. The water supply to the building needed to be increased to accommodate the new sprinkler and fire hose valve risers and to meet ADA requirements and the present plumbing codes for fixture counts. Additionally, ADA compliant bathrooms were added to each floor while the second and first floor had entirely new bathroom facilities added.

Location: Washington, DC

Facility Type : Office Headquarters
Project Size: 325,000 SF

AWARDS

2005 Pinnacle Award – Best-in-Show 
IIDA, Mid-Atlantic Chapter

2005 Gold Award – Large Office
IIDA, Mid-Atlantic Chapter

2005 Inform Award
AIA, Virginia Society Chapter

2004 Design Excellence Award, Interiors 
Washington D.C. Chapter of the American Institute of Architects