Urban Design Division Mission Statement
Our mission is to bring an explicit urban design focus to the District of Columbia — building on the distinct character of the nation’s capital city combined with a deep understanding of the human experience in order to shape great neighborhoods, buildings, and public spaces. We partner with District agencies and leaders to provide visioning and design-based thinking to enhance decision-making; plans, policies, and investments that strengthen our nation’s capital as a livable city.
Our Work Focus
We work on three types of projects to provide design leadership across the city:
High Profile Projects
We shape results on both District and Federal projects; specifically projects that impact the image and the experience of the District of Columbia.
Citywide Design Systems
We develop design frameworks at city scale, emphasizing continuity and connectivity, including public space in commercial and residential areas and large developments.
Neighborhood Placemaking
We implement specific design projects on a neighborhood scale, employing community engagement methodologies around design.
- Visualization of planning ideas,
- Interactive community engagement techniques
- District advocate for design excellence
- Design review
- Public life initiatives
- Overview of Building Projections and Regulations