The Square at International Square

International Square reimagines a formerly insular, underutilized atrium as a dynamic civic space in the heart of Washington, D.C.

Once enclosedand disconnected from the city, the atrium has been transformed into a vibrant public destination. Monumental glazed doors now open directly tothe street, seamlessly linking the interior with the urban fabric and inviting foot traffic into a renewed plaza defined by openness and transparency.

‍
At the core of the project is a curated collection of 16 local food vendors, forming a lively culinary hub beneath the 12-story glass atrium.Celebrating Washington’s cultural diversity and supporting its local businesses, the food hall fosters community through shared meals, informalgatherings, and public events—all supported by flexible seating arrangements. A natural ventilation system was integrated into the existingmechanical system and included repurposing existing rooftop exhaust fans to bring fresh air deep into the space and enhancing comfort whileimproving energy performance.