Dear Ms. Donlon:
In its meeting of 18 July, the Commission of Fine Arts was pleased to hear an information presentation for a proposed expansion to the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The Commission commended the proposal, calling it a compelling idea that will improve the utiliarian area south of the center, transforming it into an inspiring public landscape.
The Commission members strongly supported the poetic design of the proposed pavilions and the inventive manipulation of the ground plane. They expressed appreciation for the inclusion of concept drawings and hand–drawn sketches that eloquently convey the architectural intent; they noted that the proposal helps resolve long–standing difficulties with vehicular access and parking for the Kennedy Center. Commenting that the design conveys a well–developed identity for the project, they recommended flexibility in the development of its edges and its connections to adjoining areas. They also agreed that this expansion could help improve the Foggy Bottom area and serve as a catalyst for the broader efforts underway to create a more dynamic and successful waterfront along the Potomac River.
The Commission looks forward to the formal review of this project as a concept design, with the request that future presentations include additional information about the proposal's context and its relation to long–term visions for future development of the Kennedy Center area. As always, thestaff is available to assist you with future submissions.
/s/Thomas E. Luebke, FAIA
Executive Vice President
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
2700 F Street, NW
Washington, DC 20566
cc: Steven Holl, Steven Holl Architects