Topping out milestones across D.C. show promise of innovative developments to come
In a tough economic climate, we have no choice but to come together and lean on the expertise and ingenuity of one another to keep building and developing. In the first quarter of this year, our USA Commercial Development (CDUS) and USA Building (USB) teams have modeled just this. Together, they’ve topped out on three projects in the D.C. metro area. Having reached this milestone, these projects, and the individuals who work on them, are inspiring proof that even as supply chain difficulties mount, a 'be better together’ mindset can bring a bold vision to life.
At 17xM, OZMA and 3901 Fairfax, CDUS and USB are partnering to create exceptional spaces for tenants of all types.
Each development shines on its own while relating to the others in its commitment to innovation in safety, tenant wellness, sustainability and more.
17xM
17xM is an 11-story, 334,000-square-foot mixed-use development in the heart of Washington D.C. It will be the first SmartScore-certified office building in North America.
This project is targeting LEED® Gold and Fitwel certifications and has already achieved WiredScore Platinum and WELL precertification.
Our teams reduced carbon by an estimated 20 percent with the Embodied Carbon in Construction Calculator (EC3) tool throughout construction so far.
Located in D.C.’s central business district, 17xM reflects Skanska's ‘inside out’ concept, focusing foremostly on the tenant experience.
The plans prioritize personal wellness, integrated technology and efficient space use. Once open, the building will be home to multiple tenants including internationally renowned law firm, Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP, 17xM’s anchor tenant, and international financial services firm UBS.
The project recently topped out, and team members are enthusiastic about the future.
“It’s an exciting time to celebrate this landmark achievement for 17xM,” says Dale Kopnitsky, executive vice president for Skanska USB’s Washington, D.C. operations. “Our teams have been working diligently to deliver this sustainable, progressive, world-class project in the heart of the central business district and we’re proud that it will be a positive force in the community once completed.”
17xM embodies the word sustainable in multiple ways.
The building is founded on “four design principles that integrate diverse features into one, flawless ‘future-proof’ space, helping users thrive in the decades to come.”
The innovative office structure will include curated amenity spaces with integrated features such as conference and event facilities, a rooftop deck and a private lower-level terrace. The ground floor includes 13,300 square-feet of retail space.
As of January 2023, 169,177 man-hours have been worked on the job site. When it comes to materials, an estimated 23,000 cubic yards of concrete have been used on the job site and an estimated 88,000 tons of soil have been removed.
Putting the finishing touches on 17xM isn’t too far off. The project team is working toward a 2024 delivery.
OZMA
As many professionals continue to participate in a hybrid work modality, their homes remain ever important. Now more than ever, home is more than just a place to rest. It’s a place to work, explore new passions, maintain personal wellness, network and more.
With OZMA, building a life where you can thrive is within reach.
Located at 44 M Street Northeast in D.C.’s NoMa neighborhood, OZMA is a Skanska development designed to fit tenants’ refreshed lifestyles.
With 275 residential units, 7,700 square-feet of retail space and 17,700 square-feet of indoor and outdoor spaces, amenities abound.
Now that topping out has been achieved, the stunning features of OZMA are coming to life.
When it reaches completion in 2024, the building will include a secret garden connecting to a library lounge, an art studio, social bar, wellness center with tranquility cabanas, solarium garden and more.
The infusion of garden and terrace spaces throughout OZMA align with the team’s broader vision to deliver standout structures across the region.
Skanska is also working on the following projects in the D.C. area: the net zero Douglas McArthur elementary school; Virginia Hospital Center’s new Outpatient Pavilion and garage; and Heming, a 28-story, 410-unit luxury apartment building.
While working toward topping out, OZMA has been focused on achieving LEED Gold, Fitwel and WiredScore certifications. Meeting these goals would be a first for a residential development in this neighborhood.
Executive Vice President for Skanska’s CDUS Washington, D.C. region, Mark Carroll, believes the set-apart nature of OZMA is fitting with Skanska’s strong and growing collection of work in the area.
“Our D.C. portfolio is rapidly expanding and achieving great milestones in sustainability and innovative developments,” says Mark. “I have great confidence that OZMA will set higher standards with its environmentally conscious design, and will be a distinguished, thoughtful living space for NoMa’s future residents.”
3901 Fairfax Drive
The future looks different for the global workplace. To echo the energy of an ongoing workplace transformation, 3901 Fairfax is delivering a new model for offices everywhere.
With 191,000 square-feet of office space, 10,000 square-feet of ground-level retail and a plethora of amenities, 3901 Fairfax redefines the traditional office environment.
Topping out in Q1 is just the latest achievement for our teams pulling off this nine-story tower.
Throughout construction so far, the team has reduced carbon emissions by an estimated 41 percent with our EC3 tool.
They’ve also navigated an intricate support of excavation design due to the location of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority tunnel directly adjacent to the property.
On top of all of these activities, the team is targeting LEED Gold, WELL v2 Gold and WiredScore Gold certifications. 3901 Fairfax will be the first WELL pre-certified new construction project in Northern Virginia.
The local environment and future tenants’ wellbeing inform every decision. A cornerstone characteristic of the project, for example, is its biophilic design.
Throughout 3901 Fairfax, green floods in. From the 8,000 square-foot landscaped plaza at ground level, an expansive green wall in the lobby, to the green rooftop deck atop the structure, every detail encourages connection with nature, an office first.
Breathing the freshest, cleanest air is also within reach.
The building’s Dedicated Outdoor Air System provides 47 percent more fresh air than the competition, surpassing building code requirements.
“3901 Fairfax will offer a unique work environment extending beyond the walls through biophilic design and the incorporation of indoor/outdoor space to promote health and wellbeing in a meaningful workplace environment,” says Mark.
Perhaps it goes without saying that this building truly creates a new 9-5 experience.