A $250 million rehabilitation project is well underway at the National Geographic Society headquarters in Washington, DC. The long-planned work on the reimagined “Base Camp” will completely modernize the three-building block that serves as its offices, museum and event space.
Environmental sustainability is important to the National Geographic Society. Plans call for 25% of the electric power to be generated from solar panels. A gray water HVAC system will minimize its environmental footprint. Some materials for the project are being repurposed, as well, though much of the campus will look and feel new when completed.
Specifiers added more sustainability to the exterior portions of the project with steel elements hot-dip galvanized by Galvan Industries. Based on its maintenance-free durability of 75 years or more, hot-dip galvanized steel has a low economic cost and low environmental impact. Plus, Galvan’s “closed loop” galvanizing system eliminates hazardous waste from its processes. Read more.
National Geographic’s D.C. headquarters has been the center of its operations since 1888, when explorers would return from their travels around the world and bring back their findings to the Society, sharing their experiences and stories.
The current renovations were announced and begun in late 2022. The office space is being reconfigured with more open spaces and technological updates throughout. Archives are being relocated to be more accessible for researchers, and additional space is being opened for an estimated 100,000 students per year.
New public spaces will include:
- An expanded museum showcasing exhibitions, photography, and artifacts
- Immersive virtual expedition experiences
- A new Education Center
- A renovated theater with cutting-edge technologies and storytelling tools
- Selections from National Geographic’s historical archives
- A new public Explorers Bar & Grill for visitors
A 23,500 sq. ft. entry pavilion and plaza connect the three buildings via a pedestrian plaza, with space for outdoor events. Renovations are expected to be complete in 2026.
About Galvan Industries, Inc.
Galvan Industries is a member of the American Galvanizers Association. Located in Harrisburg, N.C., Galvan Industries has provided the ultimate in corrosion control to steel fabricators and manufacturers since 1958. The first hot-dip galvanizing operation in the Carolinas, the company has grown to become the largest capacity contract galvanizer in the Southeast. For details, or to place an order, call Galvan Industries at (704) 455-5102, Fax (704) 455-5215; e-mail: sales@galvan-ize.com
About National Geographic Society
The National Geographic Society is a global nonprofit organization that uses the power of science, exploration, education and storytelling to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world. Since 1888, National Geographic has pushed the boundaries of exploration, investing in bold people and transformative ideas, providing more than 15,000 grants for work across all seven continents, reaching 3 million students each year through education offerings, and engaging audiences around the globe through signature experiences, stories and content. To learn more, visit www.nationalgeographic.org.
