Originally built in 1976, Benning had been severely neglected, its systems in need of repair, and its open classroom concept antiquated. GES provided MEP & FP engineering services to bring the facility back up to code to support its new mission. As part of the project, GES provided the lighting fixture schedule, photometric calculations, fixture installation details and lighting control system design.  The renovated facility will house the State Superintendent of Education’s charter school incubator, and features renovated classrooms, media rooms, computer rooms, multi-purpose rooms, server rooms, restrooms, libraries, and administrative areas for Pre-K through 5th grade students and faculty.

The project received the following awards:
2009 Virginia Society AIA Inform awards, Award of Merit for Interior Design
2009 American School & University Educational Interiors Showcase, Outstanding Design Award
2008 IIDA Gold Award for Interior Design Excellence
2008 IIDA Special Recognition Award