Washington, DC has reached an inflection point. As cities work to recover from the disruptions of recent years, we have a real opportunity to reinvest in the public realm and reimagine how people connect, unwind, and explore. One of the most powerful tools at our disposal? The creation of Third Places—settings that are neither home nor work, but designed purely for gathering, playing, and experiencing something new.
These spaces are vital to city life. They draw foot traffic, support tourism, drive economic activity, and help revitalize urban districts. But behind every successful “Third Place” is infrastructure that makes it all work—unseen, but essential. At GHT, we specialize in MEP engineering that enables these environments to function seamlessly, no matter the season, crowd size, or complexity.
Blending Indoor + Outdoor
Water Park in National Landing is an ideal example of how thoughtful MEP systems can bring ambitious designs to life. Set within a reimagined open plaza, this mixed-use park features tiered dining, public art, and flexible event space that transitions from indoors to out. Our mechanical, electrical, and plumbing design supports the park’s year-round operations with reliable comfort systems including seasonal outdoor infrared heating, strategic lighting, and discreet infrastructure that doesn’t distract from the visitor experience. Heating and cooling systems were coordinated to extend comfort across patios and open-air lounges, without compromising energy performance.
Comfortable Open-Air Dining
Dining in the Park, also located in National Landing, posed a different challenge: how to create an inviting culinary destination that feels equally comfortable at noon on a sunny day or after sunset during an event. GHT’s MEP solutions support that flexibility. We integrated ventilation and power systems into architectural elements like pergolas and lighting features, enabling seamless transitions between daytime and nighttime operations. The result is a space that feels cohesive, no matter when or how it’s being used.
Supporting High-Traffic Flexibility
The Square Food Hall is a culinary experience designed for spontaneity. With a range of vendors and open seating, it requires systems that can scale and adapt on demand. GHT designed behind-the-scenes infrastructure to support this mix, including upgrading all HVAC systems and capacity, commercial kitchen ventilation, and specifying systems capable of handling a high volume of guests. Importantly, we also addressed air quality—ventilation and filtration systems are designed to support occupant wellness in a busy, enclosed environment.
Keeping Fans in the Game
At Nationals Park, The Champions Club hosts fans in a refined indoor setting that still connects directly to the action. The challenge: ensuring consistent thermal comfort and acoustics despite the open façade facing the ballpark. GHT’s engineering team worked to isolate noise and condition the space effectively, while accounting for large swings in occupancy. Our work also supports the ongoing operation of AV systems, lighting, and food service without visible clutter.
Infrastructure for Connection
What ties these projects together isn’t just the theme of play. It’s the ability of MEP systems to support an architectural vision while keeping people comfortable, safe, and engaged. Whether we’re designing outdoor dining or large indoor-outdoor venues, our work focuses on continuity of operations, smart integration with design features, and sustainable solutions that support wellness. As DC continues to invest in its future, Third Places will play an integral role in how the city grows. GHT is proud to help build them. When MEP design is done right, you won’t notice it. You’ll just feel good being there.