Georgetown University, Hart Auditorium

Washington, D.C.

The renovation of the 377-seat Hart Auditorium at Georgetown Law School and its adjacent upper and lower lobbies was guided by the desire to preserve history, detail, and craft while introducing elements of wellness, comfort, and occupant health. The revitalized space serves the needs of the Georgetown Law Center―including a Moot Court Program, Continuing Education programs, presentations, and plays―while preserving a sense of cohesion with the existing building. In addition to a comprehensive renovation, we integrated new design features, HVAC and electrical systems, and updated AV technologies. The result is place that is a reflection of the school’s values of outreach, impact, leadership, and community.

Client: Georgetown Law
Size: 15,000 square feet
Completion Date: 2023

Awards:
Pinnacle Award
IIDA Mid-Atlantic Premiere Design Awards, 2024
Higher Education Award
IIDA Mid-Atlantic Premiere Design Awards, 2024

The new auditorium respects its heritage by restoring, updating and paying homage to original modern design features.

Historical Forms, Timeless Materials

The design process began by evaluating the original 1968 building by Edward Durell Stone, a noted modern architect whose work includes the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. Added elements from a 1997 renovation were eliminated while the original folded wood walls around the room were emphasized. By repeating simple geometries, using monochromatic textures and patterns, and introducing light and transparency, the new design provides a more expansive appearance.

The original design intent.

The concept includes a new floating white ceiling with perimeter cove lighting and reconfiguration of the balconies to improve the design and achieve better sightlines.

A materials palette of wood, marble and glass, along with mid-century furnishings, pay homage to Edward Durrell Stone’s initial vision, while remaining grounded in our current time.

The design creates an engaging and connected experience that moves visitors from the lobby arrival through a series of gathering spaces.

Lobbies create a welcoming environment and improve circulation flow. A new opening between the two stories creates a unified space.

Perkins&Will carefully listened to the many stakeholders and produced a stunning design that captured all of our needs. The reimagined space—including a new balcony and lobby areas—transforms a dark and dated place into a highlight on the Georgetown Law campus.

David Mao, Chief Operating Officer, Georgetown Law

Project Team

Tom Butcavage

Nancy Gribeluk

Carl Knutson

Georgetown University, Hart Auditorium

Project Team

Related Content