The project proposes the construction of three buildings, corresponding with the three towers that currently stand on the site, one for each branch of the new government. The buildings are oriented radially and tangentially around the center tower of the site, which serves as a memorial to the namesake of the new commonwealth, Frederick Douglass. The new state buildings and memorial offer views all the way to the federal district, and occupy a higher point than even the Washington Monument. The state house occupies the highest point of the site and is placed precisely where the old fort stood before it was destroyed.
The plaza connecting the three buildings is composed of a series of retaining walls, ramps, green space, and hardscape, all circling around the Douglass memorial in the center. The buildings are localized around this plaza on the ground floor, providing an accessible and convenient location for the public. As one ascends the buildings, they offer a viewpoint from the upper floors, allowing for surveillance of the surrounding area. The design of the plaza and buildings is intended to create a harmonious balance between functionality and aesthetics. The use of natural elements such as green spaces and hardscape, in conjunction with the architectural design, creates a welcoming and inviting atmosphere for the public.
The project aims to create a new state presence that is not only functional but also visually striking. The site's topographical significance and its proximity to the federal district present a unique opportunity to create a new state presence that can be seen and experienced by the public. The new state buildings and memorial will not only provide a new location for the state government but also serve as a symbol of the new commonwealth, and a tribute to its namesake, Frederick Douglass. The hope is that this project will not only serve the practical needs of the state government but also become a beloved and iconic landmark for the people of Washington D.C.
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