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Designing a model for the future of academic and technical learning

At a Glance

  • 13

    Acres

  • 267K

    Square Feet

  • 1.550

    Students

Location
Arlington, Virginia
Offices
Client
  • Arlington Public Schools

Grace Hopper Center - CTE Planning and Design

Arlington Public Schools’ (APS’) existing 1970s-era vocational education facility had expanded beyond its original intent. Although the technical education programs were still highly relevant and popular, APS had grown the career center’s educational mission to more than serving just the career and technical education (CTE) needs in Arlington County. They turned to our team to create a model for the future of secondary academic and technical learning.

Named after a pioneer in computer programming and Naval officer, the new Grace Hopper Center is the result of a decade-long, comprehensive planning process for renovation and demolition of existing buildings on site and phased construction. Over a decade, we have provided multiple feasibility and conceptual design studies, educational specifications, building programming, community engagement, and, ultimately, facility design services. We have served as APS’ planning and design consultant at each step along the way.

When it opens in August of 2026, the Grace Hopper Center will offer courses and learning experiences to prepare all APS students for post-secondary success. Whether their path leads directly to higher education, employment, or military enlistment. These varied instructional programs embed hands-on learning and the practical application of theoretical concepts in each student’s everyday experience.

At a Glance

  • 13

    Acres

  • 267K

    Square Feet

  • 1.550

    Students

Location
Arlington, Virginia
Offices
Client
  • Arlington Public Schools

Meet Our Team

Jasmin McDuffie, Principal, Education

We should always strive to make our next project our best project ever!

Nikki Mancuso, Associate, Interior Designer

The most rewarding part about being a designer is seeing your ideas improve the lives of other people.

Esra Abumounshar, Architectural Designer, Generative & Computational Design Lead

We have a responsibility to better our communities with design by fostering diversity, equality, and inclusion throughout the process.
Esra Abumounshar Architectural Designer, Generative & Computational Design Lead Read More

Katharine Land, Senior Interior Design, Education

I believe that we can improve the daily experience of end users by providing unexpected yet inspiring spaces.

Tom Foley, Associate, Education

The most effective designs come from a willingness to listen to and engage each team member—and thoughtfully apply each person’s expertise.

Anh-Tu Nguyen, Associate

I’m passionate about designing educational facilities where students can collaborate and learn together with each other and their community.

Jasmin McDuffie

Principal, Education

Nikki Mancuso

Associate, Interior Designer

Esra Abumounshar

Architectural Designer, Generative & Computational...

Katharine Land

Senior Interior Design, Education

Tom Foley

Associate, Education

We’re better together

  • Become a client

    Partner with us today to change how tomorrow looks. You’re exactly what’s needed to help us make it happen in your community.

  • Design your career

    Work with passionate people who are experts in their field. Our teams love what they do and are driven by how their work makes an impact on the communities they serve.

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