Capital One Hall

Within the heart of Tysons, Virginia, Capital One Hall stands as a new landmark for both business and culture. Designed by HGA with mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection systems engineering by Mueller Associates, this 149,000-square-foot venue seamlessly blends art, innovation, and sustainability. It serves as the centerpiece of Capital One Center — a dynamic mixed-use development that redefines Tysons as a vibrant live-work-play community.

Engineering the Sound of Silence

Creating a world-class performance venue within a dense urban block demanded extraordinary acoustical precision. Mueller engineered comprehensive mechanical and electrical systems for three distinct venues:

• The Main Theater – 1,600 seats

• The Vault – 225-seat black box theater

• The Atrium – a 1,300-person flexible event space

To achieve impeccable sound quality, the design team implemented a “box-within-a-box” structural strategy to isolate vibration and absorb ambient noise. Mueller’s HVAC systems use displacement ventilation with low discharge velocities, delivering air quietly and evenly across audience zones. Mechanical routing was carefully coordinated to limit structural penetrations and preserve acoustical integrity — ensuring every performance is heard exactly as intended.

Sustainability in Performance

Sustainability played an equal role to acoustics in the design narrative. The project achieved LEED Gold certification, featuring:

• 27% energy savings compared to baseline code

• Energy recovery systems that capture and reuse heat from exhaust air

• 30,000+ square feet of green roof supporting stormwater management and insulation

• Rainwater reuse systems and bioretention basins to reduce runoff

Mueller’s high-efficiency design and intelligent controls harmonize comfort, performance, and environmental responsibility — hallmarks of a truly modern cultural facility.

Designing for Community and Connection

Beyond its technical achievements, Capital One Hall represents a shared civic asset. Its adaptable venues host corporate events, Broadway tours, concerts, community arts programs, and weddings, making it one of Northern Virginia’s premier cultural destinations. Through precise engineering and close collaboration with HGA, Mueller Associates helped realize a venue where architecture, performance, and sustainability coexist in perfect balance.

Read more about Mueller’s work on Capital One Hall in our newsletter, Momentum.