111 Massachusetts Avenue NW
Georgetown University

Georgetown University’s 111 Massachusetts Avenue NW renovation on the Capitol Campus, designed by SmithGroup Architects and constructed by Whiting-Turner. The design transforms a dark landmark into a modern academic hub. Once known as the “Darth Vader” building, the 325,000-square-foot property is now reimagined as a multi-use education facility. It will support programs from the School of Continuing Studies, McDonough School of Business, the School of Health, the School of Nursing, and executive education.

S. Albert Glass selected GGI to supply a complete package of custom architectural glass solutions that combine aesthetics with long-term function. From the glass entrance systems and custom back-painted interior wall cladding to the customized MAX™ Glass Markerboards, each application highlights the versatility of custom-fabricated glass in major renovations.

As a result, durable and visually striking glass applications created a clean, modern, and functional spaces. 111 Massachusetts Avenue NW will be a learning environment that encourages collaboration and innovation. The glass delivers transparency, daylighting, and flexibility—transforming outdated interiors into efficient light-filled spaces that reflect Georgetown University’s commitment to excellence. GGI is proud to contribute to a landmark renovation that strengthens Georgetown’s presence in downtown Washington, D.C.

Building Type

Education

FEATURED PRODUCT

Back Painted
Glass Entrance Systems
Max™ Glassboards
Tempered Glass

Owner/Developer

Georgetown University

architect

SmithGroup

General Contractor

Whiting-Turner

Glazing Contractor

S Albert Glass

Location

Washington, D.C.

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For the 111 Massachusetts Avenue NW renovation, GGI fabricated 18 custom glass entrance systems—single and paired—using ½″ (12mm) Diamant® extra-clear low-iron tempered glass, 4" headers with 90NHO COC, and 4″ top square rails; and 10" bottom square rails in brushed stainless steel, with and without panic handles and electric strikes per code requirements.

These code-compliant, durable glass entrance systems support the sharing of natural light between spaces while reinforcing the SmithGroup's open and modern design concept. In addition to the glass entrance systems and sidelites, GGI fabricated 252 pieces of 1/2" (12mm) Diamant® extra-clear low-iron for office fronts throughout the building.

GGI’s white back-painted tempered glass clads the building’s structural columns, complementing the fresh, bright aesthetic of the renovation. Visible through the expansive curtain wall, the glass-wrapped columns create a striking visual statement while allowing abundant daylight to flow inside. This modern design eliminates any trace of the building’s former “Darth Vader” identity.

No longer viewed as the “Darth Vader” building, 111 Massachusetts Avenue NW on the Capitol Campus is transformed into a vibrant educational hub. GGI’s custom glass applications—entrances, cladding, MAX™ Glassboards, and interior glass panels—support this vision with transparency, daylight, and modern functionality, proving that in this transformation, glass is the true Jedi master.

GGI fabricates MAX™ Glass Markerboard panels up to 70″ x 144″, spanning floor to ceiling for a seamless design statement. These oversized boards combine striking aesthetics with durability, transforming walls into functional, collaborative surfaces that enhance modern work and learning environments.

GGI supplied approximately 372 custom MAX™ Glass Markerboards throughout nine floors of the building. 228 were installed using Z-clips. All were produced using Diamant extra-clear, low-iron tempered and back-painted in white or custom blue. These magnetic and non-magnetic boards deliver the brightest whites, truest color rendering, and support interactive classrooms with durable, functional design.

What makes MAX™ Glass Markerboards unique is their fully custom design, with options for oversized floor-to-ceiling or wall-to-wall applications. They can be magnetic or non-magnetic and can incorporate Alice® direct-to-glass printed designs tailored to project requirements. MAX™ elevates the aesthetics and functionality of traditional glass markerboards, delivering unmatched versatility and design impact.

Each MAX™ glass marker board is produced using low-VOC paint applied to a tempered glass substrate, ensuring sustainable performance.

In addition, every system meets ANSI Z97.1, CAN/CGSB, and CPSC 16 CFR 1201 safety glazing requirements, combining environmental responsibility, code compliance, and exceptional aesthetics in one versatile solution.

MAX™ Glassboards provide limitless design flexibility with custom color matching to Pantone®, RAL, Benjamin Moore®, Sherwin Williams®, or even a fabric or wallpaper swatch.

The original structure at 111 Mass Avenue was eight stories, with the renovation and expansion plan of adding two new levels. S. Albert Glass installed GGI’s custom-fabricated entrances, wall cladding, and MAX™ Glassboards on all floors, uniting transparency, daylighting, and modern functionality to achieve the design intent.