Langston Terrace: Zero Energy, Equity-Centered Decarbonization

Langston Terrace Dwellings stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful, resident-centered revitalization. By addressing immediate concerns and integrating sustainable practices, Introba has set a new standard for housing projects nationwide.

The team's holistic approach includes envelope improvements, a ground source heat pump system, and solar integration, which not only improves the quality of life for residents but also paves the way for a more sustainable future. The transformation of former pollution sources into beneficial elements further exemplifies the innovative and forward-thinking nature of this project.

Historical Significance

Langston Terrace Dwellings, located in Washington, DC, is a landmark in the history of American public housing. Opening in 1938, it was the second federally funded housing project in the United States and the first in Washington, DC. Uniquely designed for African American families by African American architects Hilyard Robinson and Paul Revere Williams, along with landscape architect David Williston, it symbolizes communal social progress and improved living conditions. The International Style campus, which includes 274 apartment units across various building types, was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1987, underscoring its historical and architectural significance.

Revitalization and Sustainability Plan

At the intersection of historic preservation, affordable housing, community engagement, public life, and sustainability, the Langston Terrace Revitalization and Sustainability Plan addresses the evolving needs of public housing in the 21st century. This ambitious plan was developed through a resident-focused engagement and visioning process, ensuring that the community's needs and aspirations were at the forefront.

The DC Housing Authority (DCHA), in partnership with the planning team and residents, identified several key goals for the revitalization effort: prioritizing safety and security, improving health and wellness, achieving net zero energy, expanding programming, celebrating and evolving Langston Terrace's legacy, and fostering inclusion and unity.

Building Conditions

Despite its historical significance, Langston Terrace has faced numerous challenges over the years due to deferred maintenance. Residents have reported issues with thermal comfort and indoor air quality, exacerbated by the poor controls of the natural gas-based heating system. These problems have led some residents to use electric resistance space heaters for warmth and window air conditioners for cooling, resulting in energy inefficiency and increased discomfort.

People-Focused Approach

Introba, a key consultant in the revitalization plan, adopted a people-focused approach driven by extensive resident engagement. This strategy ensured that the solutions developed not only addressed immediate concerns but also aligned with broader environmental goals. By listening to residents' feedback and incorporating their needs into the planning process, the team aimed to improve the quality of life for the community while advancing sustainability.

Holistic Strategy

Introba’s cohesive strategy for Langston Terrace includes several key components designed to enhance sustainability and comfort:

• Envelope Improvements: Enhancing the building envelope is critical for improving thermal comfort and reducing HVAC system size. Improved insulation helps achieve net zero energy goals and significantly enhances residents' living conditions.

• Ground Source Heat Pump System: Implementing a ground source heat pump system provides an efficient and sustainable solution for heating and cooling. This system reduces reliance on non-renewable energy sources and lowers emissions.

• Solar Integration: Incorporating solar energy systems further reduces the carbon footprint and promotes renewable energy use. Solar panels are strategically placed to preserve the historic nature of the site while maximizing energy production.

Transforming Sources of Pollution

A notable aspect of the revitalization plan involves transforming former sources of pollution into beneficial elements for the community. For instance, the decommissioned power plant and incinerator rooms have been repurposed to host energy recovery ventilators. These ventilators, served by ductwork running through previously abandoned chutes, improve indoor air quality and eliminate emissions.

Community-Centered Planning Goals

The planning goals identified by the community, in partnership with the planning team and DCHA, are integral to the success of the revitalization effort. These goals include:

• Prioritizing Safety and Security: Enhancing safety measures and improving security systems to ensure a safe living environment for all residents.

• Improving Health and Wellness: Addressing health concerns related to indoor air quality and thermal comfort, and promoting overall well-being.

• Achieving Net-Zero Energy: Implementing sustainable practices and technologies to achieve net-zero energy consumption, reducing the environmental impact of the housing project.

• Expanding Programming: Increasing the availability and variety of community programs and services to support residents' needs and interests.

• Celebrating and Evolving Legacy: Honoring the historical significance of Langston Terrace while evolving its legacy to meet contemporary needs.

• Fostering Inclusion and Unity: Promoting inclusivity and unity within the community, ensuring that all residents feel valued and connected.

Recognition and Impact

The revitalization efforts at Langston Terrace have been widely recognized for their innovative and inclusive approach. The project has received accolades, including the AIA DC Citation for Equitable Communities, which highlights its commitment to creating a more inclusive and sustainable living environment. This recognition underscores the success of the project in addressing both the historical significance and the future needs of the Langston Terrace community.

With this recognition from AIA DC, Langston Terrace Dwellings continues to be at the forefront of equitable and sustainable community development, celebrating its rich legacy while evolving to meet the needs of the 21st century.

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This project was a winner of the 2023 Introba Awards initiative in the Regenerative Mindset category, recognizing work that focuses on achieving ambitious environmental, social, and economic project goals. These projects deliver outstanding operational performance, such as net zero energy, net zero water, best-in-class EUI, and enhanced air quality or visual comfort.

The Introba Awards, a competition juried by external industry professionals, seek to discover, recognize, and reward the very best work done by Introba employees. Our awards categories are inspired by our Living Systems approach, helping us ideate and tackle complex design challenges and improve the performance of our business.