HASTINGS Architecture — Architecture, Interior Design, Planning, and Sustainability

HASTINGS 2026 Washington, D.C. Firm Trip

Each year, our entire staff embarks on a Firm Trip to a dynamic city to explore significant works of architecture, interior design, and urban design. Dedicated to travel, learning, and connection, the trip offers an opportunity to experience inspiring places together. Peer firms across the country graciously host guided tours of their projects, sharing firsthand insights and lessons learned. These shared experiences strengthen our relationships, broaden our perspectives, and inspire our design work.

This year, we journeyed to Washington, D.C., for a full day of exploration and discovery.

We began at George Washington University, visiting the Milken Institute School of Public Health and District House, designed by Ayers Saint Gross. From there, we walked to Thurston Hall, designed by VMDO, where we learned how the thoughtful renovation of a 1929 building introduced daylight and shared spaces into a residence hall while preserving its existing structure. Both projects demonstrate sustainable design in the heart of campus.

In the afternoon, we toured the National Museum of African American History and Culture, designed by Freelon Adjaye Bond and SmithGroup. Moving through the museum, we experienced how form and material can communicate a powerful story, from the bronze-toned corona inspired by Yoruba art to the intricate panel pattern recalling ironwork crafted by enslaved African Americans. The museum was also celebrating its tenth anniversary, filling the space with music, energy, and visitors.

From there, we walked along the National Mall to the National Gallery of Art's East Building, designed by I.M. Pei. Standing at its sharp corner, we saw how Pei transformed a challenging trapezoidal site into the building's defining architectural feature. We also discovered a small connection to home: the building's pink marble came from Tennessee. While most of our team explored the Gallery on a self-guided tour, our Interiors team visited the Conrad Hotel, designed by Herzog & de Meuron.

Our final stop was The Wharf, where we began with a presentation of the district's 3D model by The Fallon Company. We then divided into three groups to tour the interiors of 670 and 680 Maine Avenue, their office space, The Channel Apartments, and the District Pier. Seeing the model before exploring the district gave us a better understanding of how the scale and organization of a neighborhood shape the evolving waterfront community.

We concluded the trip with a rooftop happy hour at the Pendry on the Wharf, taking in the skyline, sharing laughs, and reflecting on the past, present, and future of HASTINGS Architecture.

Architecture, Interior Design, Planning, and Sustainability