Located in the historic Dupont Circle neighborhood in Washington, DC, Stead Park Community Center is a modernization and significant addition to the existing community center--a carriage house originally constructed in 1888—to foster and engage movement, play, interaction, access and programming for all community members in this vibrant and diverse urban neighborhood. Sensitive to the layered history of Stead Park and the importance of the park’s open space in the dense Dupont Circle Historic district, the design emphasizes the open qualities of the park, visibility to the historic structure, while providing accessible, integrated spaces for exercise, play, interaction, and belonging for all neighbors and visitors.

As the first net-zero community center in Washington, DC, this facility highlights the District’s commitment to sustainable practices, serving as a visible, educational tool for residents and visitors.

The new facility features the modernized existing historic carriage house as the primary building entry, welcoming visitors to engage the new facility through direct access to the historic structure. The new addition consists of a variety of flexible multipurpose spaces serving both formal and informal programming for all ages, abilities, and interests. The addition and expansion includes large gathering spaces for public use, community events, group classes, arts education, and dedicated physical fitness.

Additionally, indoor and outdoor spaces for multi-age groups, such as young children, teens, and seniors connect and expand the possibilities for the how community members can utilize their public spaces, parks, and recreation facilities. A large solar canopy provides on-site energy as well as shade for children’s spaces. Site upgrades include a revitalized splash pad, entry plaza and ramp, and play equipment.