This program is sponsored by the AIA NoVA Community Service Committee and Capital Area Food Bank (CAFB).

Step inside the future of food distribution with the Community Service Committee and Capital Area Food Bank (CAFB) as we tour the transformative Bedford Falls Foundation Northern Virginia Distribution Center in Lorton, VA. Opened in late summer 2024, this cutting-edge 43,000-square-foot facility is more than three times the size of its predecessor, enabling CAFB to double its food storage and distribution capacity to meet rising hunger needs across the region.

Explore how thoughtful design choices—from expanded refrigerated storage and optimized warehouse layouts to daylight-filled volunteer spaces and renewable energy systems—empower CAFB’s mission to nourish our neighbors today while building stronger, healthier communities for tomorrow. Whether you’re engaged with Canstruction or passionate about sustainable, community-focused architecture, this tour will inspire you with real-world examples of how efficient design can drive social impact at scale.

Learning Objectives

• Examine how sustainable design strategies, including the use of low-emitting materials and innovative water use reduction techniques, create healthier, more environmentally responsible food distribution facilities.
• Evaluate the facility’s renewable energy production and optimization systems that enhance operational efficiency and reduce the organization’s environmental footprint.
• Analyze specialized warehouse design considerations, such as high pile storage permitting, airflow management above refrigeration units to minimize condensation, and zone heating/cooling systems that improve safety, comfort, and energy performance.
• Discuss the intersection of design and mission impact, learning how CAFB’s new distribution center layout, technology, and flexible spaces strengthen its ability to address hunger and engage the community effectively.

Registration is $5.00 and all the proceeds will go toward the Canstruction event.  

Parking is available in front of the facility or on the upper deck of the parking garage attached to the building. Participants will receive an email with more information after registration.

For more information about the facility, please check out the articles on the CAFB’s website: 

• Getting to know our new NOVA facility: more capacity to meet the need
• Capital Area Food Bank celebrates opening of newly expanded Northern Virginia facility
• Now open to serve our community: a new, expanded NOVA facility
• An inside look at our warehouse during the holiday season

Additional Articles:

• DCS Design: Capital Area Food Bank
• MGAC Managing Delivery of Capital Area Food Bank Northern Virginia Facility Expansion