James V. Forrestal Building

The James V. Forrestal Building, located at 1000 Independence Avenue SW in Washington, D.C., is a notable low-rise Brutalist office structure that serves as the headquarters for the United States Department of Energy. Constructed between 1965 and 1969, it was originally designed to house U.S. Armed Forces personnel and is often referred to as the 'Little Pentagon.' The building spans over 1.6 million square feet and consists of three interconnected structures, featuring unique architectural elements such as pilotis that elevate the North Building. The site has a rich history, having been the center of a significant conflict involving the Smithsonian Institution's plans for a National Air Museum, which ultimately led to the establishment of the Forrestal Building amidst a broader redevelopment of the area.