Insights

Completed in 2019, Berchmans Hall is the latest building addition to Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School's Washington, DC campus. This innovative project not only provides new areas for student engagement in community and scholarship but also establishes connections between previously disjointed historic structures. The Saint’s Connector seamlessly links St. Joseph’s Hall to the adjacent St. Bernard Library, creating a light-filled, 2-story enclosed volume that serves as a new entrance for the academic facility. Characterized by its glass-exposed steel expression and offering a modern compliment to the neighboring historic structures, this space also hosts a highly-used student commons.

The rear of the space accommodates the new McNabb Innovation Lab, now the home of GVP’s STEM program. 

To the north of St. Joseph’s Hall, Berchmans Hall houses art studios, science labs, and various classrooms, enhancing the academic landscape. The addition includes small breakout spaces equipped with whiteboards, providing students with conducive environments for reviewing test results or preparing for upcoming finals.

The ongoing collaboration between CGS Architects and GVP underscores a shared vision for educational excellence, ensuring that the school remains at the forefront of innovation and academic advancement. Berchmans Hall, with its thoughtful design and functional spaces, is a symbol of this enduring partnership, fostering a conducive atmosphere for learning and growth.

CGS Team: Bill Spack, Derek Banocy, Don Gregory, Ed Foley, Joanna Schmickel, Lindsay Hellender, Gretchen Ginnerty, Joe Lobos

Client: Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School

Project Team:
Architect: CGS Architects
Contractor: Donohoe Construction Company
MEP Engineer: Setty & Associates
Structural Engineer: Linton Engineering
Civil Engineer: AMT Engineering
Landscape Architect: Brian J. Stephenson + Company
Millwork: Diversified Educational Systems & Cabinet Max
FF&E: Price Modern & Marvin J Perry

Photo Credit: Chris Ambridge