Bitarchitects updated the first and second floors of this building to create a Child Development Center. To begin, the team changed the building’s use from an office (Group B) to an educational space (Group E). As a result, the design addressed Group E requirements for fire safety, access, and classroom use. At the same time, the team reserved the basement and third floor for stair access to emergency exits. Therefore, these floors did not include classrooms or other occupied spaces.

First, Bitarchitects changed the layouts on the first and second floors. As part of these changes, the team created spaces for classrooms, meeting rooms, bathrooms, and support areas for young children. To connect these spaces, the team added walls, doors, and a fully enclosed fire-rated stairway. In addition, the team included a new lift shaft and updated staircases to improve movement between floors. As a result, the design also supported access for people with disabilities.

Along with these layout changes, the team updated the building’s structure. More specifically, the work included new framing, stronger supports, and added reinforcement. For example, the team used new concrete block walls (CMU) for the lift shaft and connected the structural components to the existing building. Consequently, these upgrades helped support the building’s new use and updated routes between floors.

Next, Bitarchitects updated the plumbing system to support the new layout. To do so, the team installed larger domestic water lines, rerouted some existing pipes, and added new fixtures. Furthermore, the team installed new hot- and cold-water lines and drain pipes to serve the larger bathrooms, classroom sinks, and other fixtures required for Group E use. With these improvements, the plumbing system better supported the needs of the new center.

At the same time, the team improved the heating and ventilation systems. Specifically, the work included better ventilation, new exhaust fans, ERV air-handling units, and updated controls. Additionally, the team moved some existing radiators to accommodate the new layout. As a result, these changes helped improve comfort throughout the classrooms.

For the electrical work, the team installed new lights, power lines, outlets, and safety devices on the first and second floors. Meanwhile, workers removed or relocated existing electrical components that conflicted with the new layout and building systems. Alongside these upgrades, the team improved fire safety by adding new two-hour fire-rated walls and floors on the first and second floors. Furthermore, the team extended a fire-rated stair enclosure from the basement to the third floor. Finally, the team added a new sprinkler system to serve the renovated floors.

Beyond the interior improvements, Bitarchitects also upgraded the outdoor areas. These improvements included an ADA-compliant ramp, new stairs at the side entrance, and a playground designed for young children. In addition, the team incorporated flower beds, landscaped areas, and new fencing around the property. Together, these features supported safety and easy access while helping create a welcoming environment for children and staff.

Overall, Bitarchitects coordinated architectural, structural, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, and site improvements to support the Child Development Center. Through these upgrades, the team addressed the building’s new educational use, improved access between spaces, and supported the safety and comfort of children and staff.

Project Location:

Washington, DC

Project Type:
Commercial: Child Care Facility

Project Valuation:
1,683,490.00 USD

Built-Up Area:
9,698.69 SF

Construction Type:
Type V-B

Project Zoning:
RF-1

Number of Floors:
3 + Basement

Zone:

RA-1

Code:

2017 Washington DC Building Code