The AIA Potomac Valley Chapter has recognized GTM|DC with a 2026 Commendation Award for Excellence in Design in the Commercial or Mixed Use Architecture category for The Oliver, a mixed use development at Howard University's northern gateway in Washington, DC.
The Oliver is a five-story development that includes student residences, the Howard University alumni center, and event space. Designed to honor the university’s enduring legacy as an HBCU, The Oliver strengthens connections to community and culture. The building's distinctive façade takes inspiration from African woven textiles, translating their rhythm, layering, and depth into a distinctive architectural expression.
AIA Potomac Valley jurors praised the project’s design and noted that “the interior spaces balance cohesion and individuality creating a symphony of different spaces with many iconic and distinctive touchpoints within the greater identity of the project.”
They also recognized the façade for its “successful sculptural relief and integration of lighting and technical requirements,” while noting “the abstraction of African craft and textures onto the exterior envelope is an elegant move.”
The Oliver was a collaboration between GTM | DC, GTM Architects, Rock Creek Property Group, Coakley & Williams Construction, SK&A, and Allen + Shariff. Photos were taken by Garrett Rowland.
