After examining eight sites throughout Washington, the area immediately north of Mt. Vernon Square was selected as the preferred site for the new convention center. Michael was the lead designer and Design Principal in this site selection and master planning effort and was responsible for preliminary programming, site evaluation and preliminary site master planning for this 3.0 million SF facility. 

In response to site line corridors, the scheme calls for a linear building filling the blocks between 7th and 9th streets.  A multi-story entrance and ballroom lobby fronts historic Mt. Vernon Square and two stories of exhibit halls span from L to N St.  M St., which terminates to the immediate east of the site, is to be closed, while L St. remains open beneath the building which bridges above.  Service functions line the 9th street side, while meeting rooms and other public spaces line 7th street and compliment the adjacent street-front retail uses.  The bulk of the building is partially concealed at the north end of the site through the use of retaining walls and underground construction.

The plan was developed in close collaboration with District Government, the Hotel Association, community representatives including local ANC members and the Financial Feasibility consultants.