Anacostia Arts Center is a cornerstone of creativity and culture in DC’s historic Anacostia neighborhood. What began as a bold vision to provide space for artists, entrepreneurs, and community gatherings has grown into a vibrant multi-use destination — home to performances, exhibitions, retail, and collaborative workspaces.

Now poised for its next chapter, the Center will undergo a thoughtful revitalization led by Drummond Projects, enhancing flexibility, accessibility, and street presence while preserving its cultural identity. Designed to serve a diverse and evolving community, the reimagined Center will foster creativity, entrepreneurship, and connection in spaces that adapt to the needs of those who use them.

The revitalized Anacostia Arts Center is designed as an open, connected environment where creativity and community converge. Visitors move naturally through flexible retail incubators, a black box theater, adaptable gallery and event spaces, and a redesigned co-working hub. The architecture highlights adaptive reuse, featuring exposed brick, reclaimed wood, and steel that reflect the site’s industrial and cultural history. Thoughtful lighting and flexible layouts create versatile spaces that support diverse uses and encourage engagement. The result is a dynamic, immersive space rooted in cultural identity yet open to new forms of expression and connection.

‍