MMD Works with Architects Foundation on The Octagon

Read the official announcement of The Octagon’s reopening here.

The Octagon has been closely tied to our nation’s history since its construction began in 1799. Located at 1799 New York Avenue in Washington, DC, the building was designed by the first architect of the United States Capitol, William Thornton, and served for six months as the White House after the 1814 Burning of Washington.

Recognizing The Octagon’s national importance, The American Institute of Architects (AIA) established its national headquarters on-site in 1898 and restored the building as one of the country’s earliest preservation projects. Now owned by the Architects Foundation (AF), The Octagon serves as a beacon in the Nation’s Capital for the Architects Foundation’s work as the philanthropic partner of the AIA to promote an inclusive profession, and is open to the public as a museum and exhibit space. The oldest private residence in DC, it hosts programs demonstrating the cultural and societal impact of architects and architecture, and the architect’s potential to create a just and equitable society.

The Michael Marshall Design branding team worked with the Architects Foundation to design a new identity for The Octagon; the mark will be used for the Octagon building itself and the Alliance, which is the membership program which raises funds to support the mission of the Foundation.

“Working with MMD really helped us think about our organization’s identity alongside our building and the alliances we want to build,” said Marci Reed, executive director of the Architects Foundation.

By partnering with the Octagon Alliance, members can support the mission of the Architects Foundation to attract, inspire and invest in the next generation design community including supporting programs and activities held at the Octagon building.

Visit The Octagon, and learn more about the work of the Foundation and membership in the Octagon Alliance here.