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 This project involves the complete modernization of seven traction elevators: two public passenger elevators; three staff passenger elevators; and two freight elevators for the DC’s main public library. The prime consultant for the project was Grotheer & Company, responsible for project management and MEP engineering.
BELLArchitects was responsible for all cab related modifications including floor, wall and ceiling finishes, front car return panels and signage and for lobby finishes at the passenger elevators for call stations, floor finishes and signage. Elevator machine rooms at the penthouse were modified for fire separation, enlarged doors for easier maintenance and air conditioning for the new modern equipment.
One of the challenges from an architectural standpoint was making modifications to meet current codes, accessibility requirements and accommodating modern equipment without adversely impacting the original design intent of the Mies van der Rohe designed building. The existing materials at the elevator lobbies included 5’x 5’ granite floor panels at the main lobby, carpet the upper floors and exposed face brick at all levels for the walls adjoining the elevators.
A modern adaptation of an age old material was employed, by adding stone flooring in the cabs and lobbies without adding excessive weight and thickness to the existing conditions.
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