Washington, D.C.’s iconic “Darth Vader” building at 111 Massachusetts Avenue NW is set for a dramatic transformation. Georgetown University has ambitious plans to convert the building for academic use, marking a significant redevelopment in the heart of the nation’s capital. To facilitate this, ISI Demolition is executing the necessary architectural and selective demolition, expertly clearing out existing elements to prepare for the building’s transformation.
The Vision for 111 Massachusetts Avenue
Georgetown University purchased the 325,000 square-foot building from Douglas Development in 2021. Known for its dark facade and nicknamed the “Darth Vader” building, it has been one of the more controversial architectural landmarks in D.C.
Georgetown’s vision for the building includes a complete renovation to accommodate various academic and administrative uses. The redesign, managed by SmithGroup, will transform the space to house programs from the School of Continuing Studies, McDonough School of Business, School of Health and School of Nursing, and executive education programs. This revitalized building will serve as the main academic hub for undergraduate programs downtown, featuring classrooms, offices, student-serving spaces, and other academic facilities.
Office Demolition in Washington DC
ISI Demolition was contracted for the architectural demolition and selective demolition needed to clear out existing structures in preparation for the building’s transformation. Our team’s expertise was crucial in safely and efficiently dismantling parts of the structure, setting the stage for Georgetown University’s ambitious redevelopment plans.
Quick Facts
- Timing: November 2023 to August 2024
- 8 Stories Above Grade, 3 below grade, plus penthouse
- Total Building: 362,000 sqft
- Manhours: 49,000
- Location: 111 Massachusetts Avenue, Washington D.C.
“The key to a successful project is developing strong relationships with both the clients and team members in the field. When everyone works together as a cohesive unit, it ensures no lost time, no lost production, and maintains high morale throughout the project.”
Casey Anderson, P.E.
Senior Project Manager, ISI Demolition
Equipment & Techniques
Our team utilized specialized equipment, including the Brokk 180 and a 120 TN crane, supported by a tower crane supplied by the general contractor. The demolition process involved saw cutting, robotic demolition, and the use of shoring and catch decks, with primary methods being track saw cutting and hand saw cutting. These techniques ensured precision and safety throughout the project.
Environmental Responsibility
Sustainability is a core value at ISI Demolition. For this project, we recycled 94% of the total waste, amounting to 3,667 tons. This included 880 tons of metal recycling and 1,943 tons of concrete recycling, aligning with our commitment to environmental stewardship. The project also achieved LEED Silver certification, highlighting our dedication to green building practices.
Total Tons of Material Removed
Tons of Concrete Recycled
Tons of Metal Recycled
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Total Diversion Rate
Shoring and Bracing During Architectural Demolition
Shoring and bracing are critical components in ensuring the safety and success of architectural demolition projects. These techniques provide essential support to structures that are undergoing significant changes, preventing unexpected collapses and maintaining the integrity of the surrounding environment.
- Structural Stability: Provides temporary support to unstable structures, preventing collapses.
- Protection for Adjacent Structures: Safeguards nearby buildings from damage due to vibrations and debris.
- Worker Safety: Creates a secure environment, reducing the risk of accidents.
- Minimized Delays: Prevents unexpected structural failures, keeping the project on schedule.
- Regulatory Compliance: Meets building codes and safety regulations, ensuring adherence to industry standards.
- Precision Demolition: Enables controlled and accurate removal of specific sections of the structure.
Transforming Office Buildings into New Structures
The transformation of 111 Massachusetts Avenue is part of a larger trend in urban redevelopment, where older office buildings are being repurposed into new, functional spaces that meet the evolving needs of modern cities. This adaptive reuse of buildings helps preserve historical architecture while providing contemporary solutions for academic, residential, and commercial purposes.
Urban areas are seeing an increasing demand for versatile spaces that can accommodate various uses, from educational facilities to mixed-use developments. This trend not only revitalizes underutilized properties but also supports sustainability by reducing the need for new construction and promoting the reuse of existing materials.
Georgetown University’s project exemplifies this approach by turning a once-controversial building into a vibrant academic hub. Such transformations require meticulous planning, innovative engineering, and a commitment to maintaining the balance between preserving historical significance and meeting future demands.
Why Choosing the Right Demolition Partner is Pivotal for Conversion Projects
Choosing the right demolition partner is pivotal for the success of any conversion project.
- A Partner Looking Out For You: With extensive specialized experience, our team understands the complexities of various building structures and materials, enabling us to plan and execute demolition processes that pave the way for efficient conversions. This expertise prevents delays and avoids costly mistakes, ensuring the space is ready for the next phase of construction.
- Clear the Way for Construction: Our meticulous approach ensures that the space is thoroughly prepared for new construction. By facilitating a smooth transition from demolition to construction, we help keep projects on track and within budget.
- Maintain Environmental Standards: We adhere to all regulatory standards, ensuring that your project meets legal and compliance requirements. Our commitment to sustainable practices, including recycling and responsible disposal of materials, reduces the environmental impact of the demolition process.
- Avoid Delays: We understand the importance of meeting tight schedules. Our strategic approach and advanced technologies enable us to complete demolition projects swiftly and efficiently, without compromising on quality or safety. This enhances coordination and collaboration with construction teams, architects, and engineers, ensuring seamless project progression.
By choosing ISI Demolition as your partner, you are selecting a team that is not only equipped with the right tools but also the expertise to ensure the foundation of your project is set for success.
Project Overview
“The right demolition partner is crucial in the office conversions. With the right team, you can complete projects faster, reduce downtime, and improve your market position. At ISI Demolition, we leverage our expertise to ensure precision and safety, allowing you to stay ahead in the competitive landscape.”
Mark A. McWright
Director of Business Development, ISI Demolition
Leading the Way in Urban Transformation
With 49,000 manhours dedicated to this project, ISI Demolition has once again proven our expertise in handling complex urban demolition. Our work on 111 Massachusetts Avenue not only paves the way for new developments but also reinforces our reputation as leaders in the demolition industry.
