Dave Burk c SOM
National Museum of the United States Army
The first and only museum to tell the story of America’s oldest military service, from its earliest days as the colonial militia to its present-day status as the world’s most powerful ground force. The Army’s story comes to life through first-person Soldier stories, film, interactive exhibits, and the largest collection of Army artifacts, art, and materials ever displayed.
Fort Belvoir, Virginia
Client: Skidmore, Owings & Merrill
Building Size: 185,000 sf
Certifications: LEED BD+C NC Silver, BD+C, Silver
Located 20 miles south of Washington, D.C., the complex includes a main building with a grand lobby, exhibition galleries, a learning center, a rooftop garden, a cafe, and space for retail, banquets, and administrative functions. The 84-acre site also features a memorial garden, a 200-seat amphitheater, a parade field and grandstand, and an Army Trail with interpretive stations.
Interface staff members prior to joining the firm worked on the MEP concept design for the project. Interface services included value engineering, design peer review and electric and communications engineering for the Guard Boothes.
The project minimizes the use of energy and water and engages actively with the outdoor environment. Sustainable features include increased insulation, improved glazing, high-efficiency LED lighting, automatic daylighting controls and occupancy sensors, low-flow plumbing fixtures, and a green roof.