Benjamin Jacobs

The thesis proposes redeveloping the Washington DC Armory into a music center focused on substantiating local music growth.

The development will help permeate musical education and evolution throughout the city, at a time when the presence of the arts is most at risk in Washington, DC.

The DC Armory drill field is a site rich with entertainment and musical history, and its location is perfect for sheltering multiple programs. 

The three programs are housed with unique formal qualities that materialize their intentions.  Their chronological sequence encourages visitors to learn, not only about the music of the past, present, and future, but also about themselves.

Outside the practice, listening, exhibition, and performance rooms, exists a strategic system of catwalks. Their presence creates a feeling of being part of the building’s life cycle, while also providing a multitude of possibilities for interactions and performance.

There can be small bands scattered amongst the ground floor; A film may be shown inside the shell of the second and third floors; The walls may open up and allow onlookers to become active audience members of the performance hall. Deregulating these experiences makes it easier for more people to be involved in the world of music.

Floor 2

Ground Floor