About the Project

The United States Naval Institute is a non-profit organization located on the grounds of the United States Naval Academy.  Their mission is to create a forum for the dissemination of information and open-thought that furthers the advancement of the sea power services (Navy, Coast Guard and Marines).  Their headquarters is in a building that was originally constructed as a naval hospital.  Approximately fifteen years ago, CRGA designed an adaptive reuse of the original building, converting it to office use. Several years ago, our firm was again retained by the Institute to develop a design for a conference center at this headquarters building.  Major constraints including a historic easement on two of the buildings four facades and limited adjacent property created challenges.

Our solution involved the design of a curved addition, constructed partially below grade to minimize the impact to the existing building.  A series of garden walls and green roofs further soften the impact of this addition.  A large roof-top terrace above the auditorium was also created for outdoor receptions.  This terrace can also be enclosed during very hot and cold times of the year with a temporary, heated and cooled structure.

A four hundred seat auditorium is constructed within the addition. A new, three-story glass atrium separates this addition from the original building, creating a clear delineation between the new architecture and the existing building.  Approximately two-thirds of the existing first floor of the building will be renovated, developing space for large gatherings, the display and sales of Institute products (books, magazines, etc.), and a heritage room, conveying the Institute’s history.  The new addition is approximately 9,000 square feet and approximately 16,400 square feet will be renovated.

Additionally, this project has achieved LEED Silver status. Read more about CRGA and sustainability here.