Washington DC, USA
Named for its location at the intersection of Oak Drive and Sycamore Drive, Sycamore & Oak Pavilion, designed by Adjaye Associates and Winstanley Architects & Planners is a community-led mixed-use development in the predominantly Black, primarily residential, and historically underinvested Congress Heights neighborhood of Washington DC.
The development incubates retail and food concepts originating from the community and provides job opportunities to local residents.
The mass-timber structure is open-air, featuring a canopy that offers protection from the elements and fosters a sense of intimacy or a “community within a community” for those beneath it.
Punctuated by eleven strategically positioned skylights that allow natural light to illuminate the interior, this 22,000-square-foot Retail Village offers wellness and entrepreneurial support services, food vendors, and spaces for convening and events.
The pavilion is constructed entirely of 100% Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified wood, ensuring that the timber is responsibly sourced.
Designed for durability, strength, and exposure to the elements, the mass timber construction allows Sycamore & Oak to be a climate steward for a holistic future.
It is a non-toxic, non-composite, durable material that facilitates fast and efficient assembly due to its simple construction techniques and standard sizing.
It serves as a year-round community resource, retail hub, and cultural destination.
The pavilion’s modular design includes removable and replaceable wall panels, providing flexibility as businesses expand or move in and out. In line with inclusive development, the project actively engaged local minority-owned businesses to participate in construction and operations.
According to Adjaye Associates, the structure is “aimed at supporting emerging Black entrepreneurs, the pavilion provides storefronts for 13 local, small businesses.”
Project: Sycamore & Oak Pavilion
Architects: Adjaye Associates
Architects of Record: Winstanley Architects & Planners
Structural Engineers: StructureCraft Contracting LLC
Renderings: Courtesy of Adjaye Associates
Photographers: Dror Baldinger
