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Design Achievement – Drawing upon findings from the recently completed facility master plan, the Dickinson School District knew that the middle grades were in greatest need for a new school facility. Recognizing that the district wanted a school to deliver 21st Century learning environments, DLR Group engaged District administration and stakeholders to plan and design a school that would not only meet the needs of individual students, but foster meaningful opportunities, self-discovery and encourage collaboration. The new facility is designed with the future of education in mind. Subject matter agility demanded spatial transformation and reconfiguration through innovative wall systems. This flexibility will bring a new generation of learning spaces, allowing teachers and students to adjust their environment to support more active pedagogies. In this design, students are organized into clusters, each containing three primary learning environments together with lab space and common discovery areas. While the edge of each cluster are defined, it is what is afforded within that will allow each peer group of 120 students and four teachers the chance to collaborate and explore the curriculum together. The walls open and slide; each configuration resizing the learning area in multiple directions. Technology is ubiquitous, with segments of presentation walls distributed throughout each cluster anchoring the space. Natural light will be transmitted through direct and indirect means, depending upon the configuration at any moment. Media materials are co-located in each cluster and transported back and forth on demand from the media center. Lockers are located adjacent to the academic areas, with some banks on casters to afford an adaptive educational area where tables could be wheeled in place thereby taking advantage of traditionally underutilized space. Color and material selection will signify each cluster’s identity. Scope Summary – The new 200,000 SF middle school is designed to accommodate 960 students in grades 6 through 8. In addition, the building will serve multiple community functions and house community gatherings. A series of encore rooms, each outfitted with additional technology, are found throughout the core of the building to accommodate specialty classes such as art, drafting or consumer science and may be adapted as specialty programs are changed or added. Specialty classrooms for special education and language arts are located with staff offices and other building support spaces in the core of the building, music and physical education programs are grouped together with the commons and forum spaces in a specially zoned wing for after-hours community use. The student commons area serves primarily as the student cafeteria, but can act as a multifunction space for school and community events; the forum incorporates theatrical lighting and rigging and can serve as a large lecture and performance space. DLR Group is providing architecture; mechanical, electrical, structural engineering; and interior design services.
Design Achievement – Drawing upon findings from the recently completed facility master plan, the Dickinson School District knew that the middle grades were in greatest need for a new school facility. Recognizing that the district wanted a school to deliver 21st Century learning environments, DLR Group engaged District administration and stakeholders to plan and design a school that would not only meet the needs of individual students, but foster meaningful opportunities, self-discovery and encourage collaboration. The new facility is designed with the future of education in mind. Subject matter agility demanded spatial transformation and reconfiguration through innovative wall systems. This flexibility will bring a new generation of learning spaces, allowing teachers and students to adjust their environment to support more active pedagogies. In this design, students are organized into clusters, each containing three primary learning environments together with lab space and common discovery areas. While the edge of each cluster are defined, it is what is afforded within that will allow each peer group of 120 students and four teachers the chance to collaborate and explore the curriculum together. The walls open and slide; each configuration resizing the learning area in multiple directions. Technology is ubiquitous, with segments of presentation walls distributed throughout each cluster anchoring the space. Natural light will be transmitted through direct and indirect means, depending upon the configuration at any moment. Media materials are co-located in each cluster and transported back and forth on demand from the media center. Lockers are located adjacent to the academic areas, with some banks on casters to afford an adaptive educational area where tables could be wheeled in place thereby taking advantage of traditionally underutilized space. Color and material selection will signify each cluster’s identity. Scope Summary – The new 200,000 SF middle school is designed to accommodate 960 students in grades 6 through 8. In addition, the building will serve multiple community functions and house community gatherings. A series of encore rooms, each outfitted with additional technology, are found throughout the core of the building to accommodate specialty classes such as art, drafting or consumer science and may be adapted as specialty programs are changed or added. Specialty classrooms for special education and language arts are located with staff offices and other building support spaces in the core of the building, music and physical education programs are grouped together with the commons and forum spaces in a specially zoned wing for after-hours community use. The student commons area serves primarily as the student cafeteria, but can act as a multifunction space for school and community events; the forum incorporates theatrical lighting and rigging and can serve as a large lecture and performance space. DLR Group is providing architectural, mechanical, electrical, structural engineering and interior design services.
Design Achievement - Indian Prairie School District 204 is one of the largest school Districts in Illinois and historically one of the fastest growing Districts in the country. Metea Valley High School is designed to support personalized learning, collaboration, and community integration. Four multi-function academic "think tanks" flank the central media center and connect to adjacent courtyards. Decentralized science labs support interdisciplinary learning and provide program flexibility to accommodate a variety of academic models. By locating these specialized rooms throughout the four core areas, the school can be organized by grade level, by department, or into small learning communities. At the confluence of the academic clusters is the digitally-rich media center that serves as the academic epicenter of the building. Wayfinding is reinforced by zoning the building according to use. Spaces that support physical, intellectual, and artistic uses are collected into three distinct areas of the building. Additionally, a simple, straightforward layout of corridors, including outdoor covered pedestrian bridges that connect academic wings, create a circular means of travel within each academic cluster and can be seen throughout the building. Scope Summary - The scope of this project is a 464,200 SF comprehensive high school that provides advanced educational spaces for 3,000 students. Distinct core instructional areas organized in two wings are supported by administrative offices and teacher planning centers, student lockers and resource areas, and vertical circulation. The building's orientation on the site optimizes the quality and quantity of natural light into the building. Outdoor courtyards provide secure outdoor gathering space and, along with high ceilings and clerestory windows, bring natural daylight into the school. DLR Group provided architecture and interiors services.
Design Achievement – Facing continued enrollment increases and dated classroom spaces that were unable to provide 21st century learning environments, the District knew changes were required in their high school program. Several ideas had been generated by administrators, staff, and residents that addressed changing needs. DLR Group was retained to lead a visioning and concept development process designed to identify a solution that was at once responsive to the District’s pedagogical requirements and supported by District constituents. Scope Summary – All of the district’s 850 high school students are served by one centrally-located facility. Originally built in 1968 with several additions, the most recent in 1997, the school provides a comprehensive high school program using a block scheduling system. After benchmarking existing facilities, the design team led visioning sessions with staff and community members to discern priorities for future development. Participants investigated several options that reflect a program embracing 21st century learning environments and technical skills exploration and development. DLR Group provided planning and programming services.
A community in need of either expanding their current high school or building new, Bradley-Bourbonnais Community High School District hired DLR Group to conduct a facility study for 250,000 SF. Meetings with District Administrators and workshops with community groups and various users helped the project team unveil current as well as future needs. The facility study provided enough detail to compare realistic budgets allowing a phased approach to funding without wasting/throwing away previous efforts. Their increasing high school population indicates that Bradley-Bourbonnais needs a facility that will accommodates future growth and allow for community use. The key challenges facing the project team involved the age of the school combined with its many additions, as well as the tightness of the site. Options considered include renovation, addition to existing facilities, building new on the current site, and building new on an acquired site. The final decision was made to renovate and add on to the existing building in phases to minimize disruption during occupied season. A building master plan outlines three phases, in addition to various renovation projects as part of Bradley Bourbonnais’ 10-year life safety plan.
DLR Group's concept for the Illinois Medical District (IMD) will deliver a vibrant mixed-use development that conveys a strong sense of place and source of vitality for those who work, live and play at the campus.  IMD is a special-use zoning district of medical centers and hospitals on the west side of the City of Chicago, created by the Illinois state legistature in 1941.  The proposed $260 million development incorporates two hotels (175-room Hyatt Place Hotel and 175-room Hyatt Summerfield Suite), a 1,400-car parking garage, a residential tower with 408 units, over 100,000 SF of retail and restaurant venues, a fitness center, a child care center, and a 175,000 SF Proton Therapy Center.  The development is intended to serve both the public and private sectors, and will deliver a prominent landmark to the heart of the IMD.  After completion in 2014, the IMD will be the Midwest's premier Biotechnology and Life Science destination.
Design Achievement – Closed in 2017 when the new Middle School opened, Berg had served as the site for all District sixth grade students. Dickinson Public Schools was interested in re-opening a renovated Berg Elementary for a new grade configuration. The Board of Education saw an opportunity to re-draw attendance areas, allowing more students to attend a school that is closest to their neighborhood while accommodating continued growth. DLR Group is leading the effort to renovate the school to accommodate a K-4 program with refreshed learning spaces, appropriately-sized casework and furnishings, and updated technology. Known as a small community school with naturally occurring collaboration between grade levels, the renovation builds upon the building’s inherent functionality while providing learning spaces that foster a love of learning and exploration. Scope Summary – The 51,000 SF elementary school building constructed in 1950 is being renovated to serve a K-5 program for 250 students. Rest rooms, handrails, door hardware, classroom casework, and lockers are being renovated to serve this younger student population. The cafeteria, common areas, and signage are updated with new finishes that project a clean and airy character. The administrative offices are relocated adjacent to the main entry to improve security. Infrastructure improvements include new lighting and telephone systems, updated technology, and strategic window replacements. DLR Group is providing architectural, engineering, and interior design services.
Ottawa School District hired DLR Group to design a new athletic fieldhouse and community center. The facility will address the needs of both the school district as well as the citizens of Ottawa. Features of the 108,000 SF fieldhouse include:· three-court gymnasium· indoor tennis courts· eight-lane competition pool with diving well· leisure pool with play area· community center with senior center and student commons- physical education staff offices
Design Achievement – Faced with overcrowded facilities and projected increases in high school enrollment, Bradley-Bourbonnais Community High School District needed a fiscally prudent solution to accommodate student needs. DLR Group was engaged to lead a study, investigating options and developing the district’s preferred solution. Meetings with numerous stakeholders helped the project team discern priorities, articulate current and future needs, and explore options with associated cost estimates. Both new construction and addition/renovation solutions were explored. The team was challenged by a sprawling building that, after several additions in its 50-year history, had nearly reached the site’s limits. The district decided to implement a phased improvement plan, encompassing both thoughtful addition and renovation work, with the bulk of construction work taking place over the summer months to minimize class disruption. Several renovation and deferred maintenance projects were also integrated into the master plan. The resulting project provides additional classroom and teacher support areas, upgraded learning environments, athletic spaces that may be shared with the community, and improved building systems to optimize operational costs. Scope Summary – Renovations to the Bradley-Bourbonnais Community High School were implemented over three phases. The first phase renovated 33,400 SF of classroom space and added 33,800 SF, filling in an existing courtyard. The new addition provided 15 new classrooms, a sky-lit atrium, weight/cardio room, and a new brightly lit school entrance. The new classrooms served as “swing” space, housing students as existing classrooms in other areas of the building were being upgraded. The second phase renovated 27,000 SF of classroom space and added 54,000 SF, filling in the area between two of the building’s wings. This addition provided a new athletic lobby, library, cafeteria and kitchen, additional classrooms and support spaces; it also opened up a central circulation corridor to reduce crowding during class passing times. The third phase renovated 16,000 SF of existing space, converting the former kitchen/cafeteria and library into hands-on learning labs, research and development labs, and virtual libraries. DLR Group provided architectural planning and design services. Projects: 22-06108-01, -02, -03, -04 22-07103-00, -01, -02, -03, -04 22-08105-00, -01, -02, -03, -04, -05, -06, -07, -08, -09, -10, -20 22-09102-00, -01, -02
After undergoing an expansion and remodel, DLR Chicago’s office is now 7,000 SF with a capacity of approximately 50 employees. A focus on collaborative spaces encourages informal charrettes and creates functional workstations. A sustainable approach to the project was taken; using 40% of interior, nonstructural components, specification of cradle-to-cradle products and a strong community connectivity.
Design Achievement DLR Group’s designers completed the design for a $20 million upgrade to the BMO Harris Bank Center with a glass-enclosed atrium entrance as a key focal point for the renovated arena. Inside, 12 luxury suites were added to the seating bowl. The undersized ice sheet was extended to a full 200 foot hockey sheet for the new AHL team. The seating bowl in the north end was removed to allow for the extension and replaced with 3 levels of hospitality space overlooking the event floor. The ice level Club is a premium product with high quality seating and food and beverage options. The upper two levels house concessions, circulation and group sales areas. Additionally, mid-bowl loge seating was added around the bowl as a new “mini-suite” ticket option. Restrooms, concessions and team facilities were all expanded to enhance the entertainment venue. Star dressing/lounge areas, a relocated stage, and a new, easily accessible dock/marshalling area were also provided as part of the improvements to the arena. Scope Summary This renovation greatly improves the overall experience of the aging facility. A new, dramatic glass atrium lobby was created to inspire patrons as they enter. It includes a new box office and entry control to improve facility operations. Sports and performance support spaces were also upgraded to make the venue more attractive to the entertainment industry.
Design Achievement – The Coal Ben building dates back to 1901 when it served as a coal storage facility for the Benedictine University campus. DLR Group’s design transforms this abandoned, unused building into a multi-use gathering space with a restaurant, bar, and cafe for students, faculty, and the surrounding community. The building retains the original coal storage atmosphere through the use of exposed masonry and concrete flooring, while updating the building with modern systems and a fresh new palette of colors to partition the interior spaces. Scope Summary – The scope for this project was an adaptive-reuse and renovation of a 5,000 SF building. The Coal Ben includes a complete interior demolition and reconstruction along with a new highly efficient and sustainable roofing system. The original lift crane was cleaned and continues to overlook the space. Because the building was never a mechanically controlled environment, much of the existing material from the demolition was reused. The original floor is now located in the basement of the space and houses new mechanical and electrical equipment. Steel plate floors were designed into unique light fixtures that line both side passages, while redwood floor planks were refinished to become the floor for the exterior deck. DLR Group provided architectural design services for this project.
Development of a new Hanson Park Campus has been the goal of community leaders for several years. Morgan Park High School and Hanson Park Elementary School, who both play integral roles in the amenities layout, share the site, encompassing approximately 31 acres. Scheduled for completion in the spring of 2002, the park will serve as host to a variety of activities. The new campus will feature competition baseball and softball fields, two competition soccer fields; three practice baseball/softball fields, practice football and soccer fields. There will also be a walking/jogging path.
Design Achievement - Brokaw Early Learning Center serves a unique group of pre-school students, many with learning or physical disabilities. Every design element incorporated by DLR Group responds to the learning scale of these three-to-five-year-old users. The facility features four small houses that pinwheel around a central core of shared spaces. Each house consists of five classrooms surrounding an open, naturally lit living room, now dubbed villages. From a student's perspective, the design reduces the scale of a large school into just five classrooms and a village. Each village is designated with a specific color so students can easily identify their assigned village. The many attributes of the school give each student a place where he, during the most critical development period of his life, can learn how to learn - a trait necessary for life. Scope Summary - The 37,900 SF school sits on 10 acres and houses 600 students total, 300 in the morning and 300 in the afternoon. A child-friendly scale is influenced through the use of color, materials and texture.  The design creates a horizontal line at 9'4" above the floor through a change of material.  Layered into the elevations is a vertical pattern of color, textures and glass, which create a checkerboard effect that is ordered, yet playful. Focusing on children and their daily activities, each classroom has in-floor and ceiling radiant heating for improved comfort of the student. This feature also creates a warm, cozy environment. DLR Group provided architecture and interiors services.
The Wojcik Conference Center, on Harper College’s suburban Chicago campus, underwent an exterior renovation to resolve numerous water infiltration issues. While the main thrust of the project was to fix the leaks, the College President’s charge was to improve the aesthetics of the building as much as possible within the established budget. In addition to correcting all the technical mistakes made by the building’s original design and construction team, DLR Group was able to deliver a significant visual upgrade to the building.
In the revised design of the new high school for Oswego Community School District 308, the plan has been compressed into an efficient layout and circulation diagram. An outer ring of corridors organize the major programmatic functions while classroom wings and courtyards carve through the center of the building. This creates unique opportunities for day lighting the interior of the building and develops safe controlled outdoor educational spaces. Conceptually, the school can still be drawn as three interlocking circles: Social Learning (shared facilities), Structured Learning (traditional classrooms) and Active Learning (academic labs and student/staff work areas). The new high school site provided us with several challenges and opportunities. The closest utility is located several miles away. Early in the design process we evaluated several options to evaluate how self sustaining the project could be from water use to site generated power. We have developed a comprehensive strategy for managing all our water and waste on-site from rain harvesting to drip irrigation off the playfield from the building black water. To minimize cut and fill on site, a portion of the building is below grade. This gives everyone access to grade level entrances. The main entry for students and visitors is at the upper level above the student commons and athletic areas creating dynamic views through the heart of school in one of the larger internal courtyards.
A venerable institution in Chicago, the K-8 school has an impressive alumni list that includes members of the Kennedy family. DLR Group was selected by Sacred Heart Schools in 2000 to complete a master plan for the expansion and renovation of their existing facilities, which currently accommodate 400 students in the Academy and Hardey Preparatory Elementary and Middle School programs.   Located on a 2.18-acre urban site directly across the street from Lake Michigan, Sacred Heart Schools is comprised of 96,820 SF in three existing structures: the Main Building (c. 1923), a four-story structure totaling approximately 52,000 SF; the Rosemont Building, an eight-story addition (c. 1960); and the Campbell Building, a free-standing 27,000-SF structure located south of the Main Building. In addition, SHS recently acquired a residential property on the site’s southern boundary, which was evaluated as part of the campus enhancement effort.   Through DLR Group’s comprehensive programming, planning, conceptual design and budgeting process, SHS was able to explore numerous planning options for expansion of facilities, which addressed an expanding enrollment, program space deficiencies and deferred maintenance issues.   In order to capitalize on the existing funds, Sacred Heart chose to go ahead with only a portion of the approved master plan. The existing gymnasium building was to be replaced but instead was connected to the main building via a new four-story, 35,000 SF addition. The program includes two middle school science rooms, five kindergarten rooms, two computer rooms several general classrooms and a new library. Unique feature of the new design include a fourth floor multi-purpose room and rooftop playground, which are solutions that respond to the school’s dense urban setting.
Design AchievementLooking to expand their downtown Chicago facilities to support 6,000 employees through the addition of 1.5 million SF of new office space, GSA Region 5 hired DLR Group to provide a master plan that included several options based on various site and tenant scenarios. As a part of a greater Federal Campus, the site’s relationship to the other buildings is important - whether it’s formal, functional, circulation-based or visual. The site analysis revealed unique opportunities including the potential for an southern exposed urban plaza with vistas to the Mies Van der Rohe designed Dirksen U.S. Courthouse building and Alexander Calder’s Flamingo sculpture.Scope SummaryOptions were explored with a minimum practical floor plate size of 25,000 SF, while also recognizing that larger plates may be more desirable for some agencies. As the GSA continues to acquire properties and assess the practical value of the existing buildings for re-development, the site planning scenarios vary accordingly. Seven alternatives were developed, representing four different site size/ownership situations. The design solutions are planned to achieve a LEED Gold rating.
Benedictine University’s growing student population, academic excellence, and athletic program, a new facility was envisioned to provide amenities that enhance three growth areas. The program was to renovate the University’s existing athletic center into a state-of-the-art facility. This included converting an unused natatorium into a fitness center for strength, conditioning, and cardio as well as the addition of a new training room complete with hydrotherapy pools. Also included was a full gut office renovation to provide the appropriate space for the faculty and staff. A new entrance lobby for the building connects the gymnasium, office suites, and multipurpose rooms used for education and recruitment. Located at the main intersection of campus, this facility is the University’s new face to the surrounding community. Renovation of the site further enhances the aesthetic of the building with an elevated view overlooking a garden patio and campus beyond.
DLR Group provided master planning services for this growing community college with two campuses. Working with the appropriate administrative staff, DLR Group looked at the college's academic programs and the relationship to the community cultures they serve. This allowed us to determine the most appropriate space allocation to support the programs and the college's intended growth. (The student population has increased from 1,000 students in 1969 to the current enrollment of 10,000). In addition, we worked with the college staff to provide solutions to space needs for academic programs, offices and support services as well as relationship to the overall strategic plan. Phase I of the subsequent master plan included a performing arts center renovation and addition that encompassed 18,000 SF of new construction and a 20,000 SF remodel to the existing facility. A main feature of the design, existing space was transformed into a spacious public congregation area to be used for pre-performance gatherings and reception events. A dramatic new entry creates a strong building identification while fitting into the existing campus landscape. The exterior was designed to allow for public display of free standing art as well as the incorporation of a mural as a permanent display in the approach wall.The Performing Arts Center includes the: § Mainstage - a 285-seat auditorium designed for optimum artistic expression and audience comfort. § Studio One - an intimate, black box space that seats up to 100. Studio One is an environmental theater, so the seating arrangement changes according to the show being staged. § Studio Two - an informal music training and recital space. The project includes the following features:§ A new entrance with an updated image.§ A new lobby that includes relocated stage support areas, ticket booth and coat room.§ Upgrades to the 20-year-old lighting, mechanical and sound systems.§ ADA and life safety code improvements.In addition to its role of presenting fine performances, the Performing Arts Center is a place for education. Each day, students, faculty and staff use the Center's studios, classrooms and scene shops as part of the Oakton curriculum.
Design Achievement - The Chicago Fire Department and the Public Building Commission of Chicago are working in partnership to build new firehouses in neighborhoods throughout the City. DLR Group's design for the new Engine Company 109 is a refined version of the prototype developed in an earlier project, when the design team discovered multiple opportunities to improve the efficiency, sustainability, and functionality of the design. Certified LEED Gold, this station is evidence that sustainable design solutions can also provide firefighters with the latest in technology, enhancing quick response to various types of emergencies within the communities they serve.Scope Summary - The new 14,000 SF firehouse includes accommodations for up to 16 firefighters, separate officer quarters, an apparatus bay to house multiple emergency response vehicles, a hose and watch tower, a staff training/educational room and a full-service kitchen and dining area. The facility also includes 3 inbound and 3 outbound doors with a 52 foot circular driveway designed for ease of maneuvering all fire vehicles. The campus includes an innovative geothermal wellfield system shared between the fire station and the adjacent public library with expectations for proactively reduced energy use. Indoor breakout space is expanded with the connection to the outdoors including a patio and grilling area. DLR Group was the Architect of Record, providing architecture and construction administration services.
The new chapel will serve the campus as a spatial heart where students of any denomination may open themselves in spiritual contemplation. Glass, copper, and masonry are articulated with striking simplicity and allow natural light to play a central role in defining the spatial experience. The building is arranged to provide respectful borders between office functions and areas for worship. A graceful bell tower announces the building’s presence at the thoroughfare where two entry plazas flank an exterior courtyard and step down from the thoroughfare to meet the striking façade.
Located at a prominent Chicago intersection, Kinzie and Wells, and adjacent to the world famous “Mart,” this mixed-use development includes ground floor retail, structured parking, and a residential tower with beautiful southern views of the Chicago River. A 22,000 SF retail space is located on the first two floors taking advantage of the sloping grade and allowing for entry on either floor. Sandwiched between the retail and residential tower are eight stories of structured parking to support the retail and residential tenants, with an allowance for public parking. The Phase Two residential tower includes 153 residential units and eight penthouse suites. The total project encompasses over 252,000 SF, 29 stories, with an estimated construction budget of $53 million.
Design Achievement – Benedictine University uses the Rice Athletic Center for summer camps, conventions and special events. The University asked DLR Group to examine the building to determine costs for deferred maintenance and decided to maximize their investment dollars by upgrading several portions of the space while addressing the various infrastructure needs. DLR Group's design boasts an NCAA regulation basketball arena, indoor track, support lockers rooms, and pool renovation as well as a community/student fitness area and space for intramural sport programs. Scope Summary – The scope of this project encompassed renovation of 26,000 SF of existing space including a new entry that serves as a welcome area for the fitness center, a hall of fame, the addition of a 3,000 seat arena, athletic offices, and other support spaces. DLR Group provided architectural design for this project. Benedictine University’s growing student population, academic excellence, and athletic program, a new facility was envisioned to provide amenities that enhance three growth areas. The program was to renovate the University’s existing athletic center into a state-of-the-art facility. This included converting an unused natatorium into a fitness center for strength, conditioning, and cardio as well as the addition of a new training room complete with hydrotherapy pools. Also included was a full gut office renovation to provide the appropriate space for the faculty and staff. A new entrance lobby for the building connects the gymnasium, office suites, and multipurpose rooms used for education and recruitment. The 7,500 SF fitness Center includes a cardio and circuit training area on the first floor. A strength training area inside the center is accommodated with yoga and conference studios, as well as a hot and cold hydrotherapy plunge pool. Located at the main intersection of campus, this facility is the University’s new face to the surrounding community. Renovation of the site further enhances the aesthetic of the building with an elevated view overlooking a garden patio and campus beyond. This new facility brings the Dan and Ada Rice Center into the 21st century with the renovation of existing spaces and the addition of a 3,000-seat arena. The University has been able to implement Phase one of the original plan for the Rice Center. The new entry serves as a welcome area for the fitness center, hall of fame, athletic offices and other support spaces.
Design Achievement – Benedictine University teamed with OPUS, a non-profit agency formed to stimulate and encourage student's interest in learning orchestral and string music, to develop a performing arts venue on the Benedictine University campus. DLR Group's design concept translates the Christian roots of the University and the vision of OPUS into a cohesive design. The building is reminiscent to the shape of a fish, a traditional symbol of Christianity, while the gentle curve of the roof line echoes the smooth outline of stringed instruments. Scope Summary - The scope of work encompassed design of a new building and surrounding landscape. Spaces include ticketing and reception, exhibit halls, a performance center, and support spaces. DLR Group provided planning and design services for fundraising.
Design AchievementHyatt’s new Hyatt Place brand offers downtown Champaign an upscale, select-service hotel well-suited to its location in the heart of the city. DLR Group designers blended the new hotel design into the urban fabric of Champaign through the use of brick and traditional detailing found in surrounding downtown neighborhoods. The 9-story building has 145 rooms located on the top floors with on-site parking provided on the second through fourth floors. A lobby and other unique features of the Hyatt Place brand are designed into the main floor. DLR Group’s design is the first Hyatt Place in Illinois outside of the Chicago area. Scope SummaryThis new 145 room, 9-story, Hyatt Place in downtown Champaign includes on-site parking structure for 145 cars. The 124,300 SF select service hotel features amenities inspired by the brand’s multi-tasking 24/7 guest’s lifestyle. Spacious guestrooms with an ergonomic work center will feature state of the art technology. A fitness center, coffee and wine bar, Grab-N-Go case, and Guest Kitchen are provided in the design. DLR Group provided full architectural and interior design services as well as mechanical and electrical engineering.
Design Narrative: As Benedictine University continues to grow academically, as well as competitively in athletics, additional locker room space becomes a necessity. The University had outgrown their current space and was looking for a solution to expand their football program with the functions and space it requires. The project design and construction schedules were met with success prior to the start of the academic and athletic calendar. Meanwhile, the space exceeds expectations for the programs to operate and function far into the future. Working on an aggressive schedule and tight budget to meet the upcoming football season, DLR Group was commissioned to design an addition and convert three existing racquetball courts. Within a few short months, the space had to be designed, permitted, constructed, and moved into by the start of the fall semester. Scope Summary: Reallocating the function of the existing racquetball courts into the primary location for a football locker room required an extensive renovation. The demising walls separating the courts had to be removed and the existing floor above had to be supported with the introduction of a steel support structure to provide a large open space for the locker area. The locker area has 120 lockers designed and oriented toward a focal point to a display wall. The display wall has two large screen TV’s and a writable surface for the coaching staff to mentor the young athletes. Individual showers were provided for rotation of thirteen athletes at a time. The space also includes a flexible lounge that can be used for many events and functions. The technology in the space was considered to be a priority to offer convenience to the student athletes and to give a unique and cutting edge identity to the space. The space has a wireless connection throughout. Each locker includes power and a USB outlet for personal electronics in a lockable cabinet. The lounge has 5 TV’s with the capability of watching 5 different channels at the same time, as well as video game connections. A docking station is provided in the wall to connect and iPod. In-ceiling speakers are connected to the docking station and to the TV’s, allowing the sound to be played throughout the space. Red LED lights are installed in the multi-soffited ceiling outlining the lockers and provide a powerful aesthetic impact. To further emphasize the focal point of the display wall, Benedictine University’s logo is installed in the ceiling above with red LED lights backlighting the pin-mounted logo.
Located on a 3.2-acre site and consisting of four floors, this 88,930 SF building allows for the efficient organization of tenants around a compact central core. The building is being designed to achieve LEED certification from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and will incorporate 42 secure underground parking spaces. The building features a four-story atrium with a communicating stair and north-facing clerestory window-wall. Temperature and humidity sensors will control fresh-air dampers at the base and roof of the atrium so that the building can be ventilated through natural stack effect during temperate months. The elevator core is adjacent to the central atrium and will borrow its natural light. The building will also feature a pre-planted, cellular extensive green roof system. The building will be clad in locally-manufactured architectural precast spandrel panels and high-performance low-e glass. The west-facing glazing on the atrium will be recessed into the façade and provide additional glare control with a 50% opaque ceramic frit pattern on the glass.
Design Achievement - Lincolnshire Commons is a modern lifestyle center that meets the needs and desires of its local community in the northern Chicago suburbs. DLR Group's design takes advantage of the highly visible and accessible site to offer shoppers inviting views and ease of access to an active destination of retail shops, restaurants, and banking services. The center's mix of amenities creates a dynamic environment with full-day attraction. The selection of pad-site restaurants, stand-alone major retailers, and multi-tenant retail buildings establishes a socially and economically healthy, vibrant atmosphere. Scope Summary - This 160,000 SF development consists of 12 buildings nestled against a lake. Buildings exhibit large areas of quality materials, significant variation of façade plane, and dramatic fluctuation of cornice height. The result is a building of four facades, each providing architectural interest for both the pedestrian visitor and the distant passersby. DLR Group provided planning and architecture services.
Provided rendered site/floor plans for future anchor and common area expansion and associated square footage and parking tables for each scheme.
Design Achievement - Response time to an emergency call can mean the difference between life and death. DLR Group's number one objective for the design of Engine Company 16 was to decrease response times by integrating the latest technology all within a sustainable environment. Using a modern design for living quarters, advanced training options and office workspace for officers, the energy efficient fire house exceeded the City's baseline LEED V2.2 Silver Certification requirements to achieve LEED v3.0 Platinum certification, the first LEED Platinum firehouse in Illinois. Scope Summary - This new  18,000 SF fire house is constructed on city-owned property and is the first of the Prototype B engine companies. The station includes: a large apparatus bay to house multiple emergency vehicles, full kitchen, locker rooms, toilet facilities, sleeping quarters, officers' quarters, physical training room, meeting room, education room, EMS Field Division South headquarters, haz-mat unit operations with associated storage, a 150 foot communication tower, and parking for approximately 30 vehicles. A clerestory runs the full length of the facility to optimize day lighting. DLR Group provided architecture services for this project.
When locating a new parking structure on campus, Benedictine University desired a facility that blends into the campus architecture while also improving campus wayfinding and safety and security. DLR Group’s design of the parking ramp holistically relates to the campus. The east stair and elevator tower serve as a clear wayfinding beacon upon approach to the campus. While the north stair tower acts as a beacon to one of the main pedestrian access paths to and through campus. Its axis is aligned with the east façade of the Coal Ben, which sits as the entrance to the quad and the pedestrian pass is directly adjacent to the north stair tower to intentionally create a visual and physical connection to the lake south of the parking garage. While the overall structure creates a direct connection to the entry plaza and Kindlon Hall. A series of new bike racks and relocated benches encourage social interaction. The campus police department is located on the lower level which provides a centralized location and enables easy access as well as a prominent face for safety and security on campus. The four level parking structure includes 427 stalls and a 7,760 SF police station. The structure is designed to add an additional 2.5 levels as parking needs increase.
Provided rendered site/floor plans for future anchor and common area expansion and associated square footage and parking tables for each scheme.
The existing Stratford Square Mall, in Bloomingdale, IL, encompasses over 1.2 million SF anchored by 6 major tenants. The mall's new owners, Feldman Mall Properties, commissioned DLR Group to develop a master plan as the driving force of the mall's re-tenanting efforts and the re-imaging of the center. The project scope includes various interior and exterior upgrades intended to re-energize the center's shopping experience. Improvements include: New exterior lifestyle plaza areas at the key entries; parking and site improvements; the replacement of mall furnishings and plantings; the addition of new soft seating areas; replacement of existing stairs with a new elevator; lighting improvements and ceiling enhancements; and the addition of a new 3,000-seat cinema. "Crafted by human hands" is the driving idea behind Stratford Square Mall's new image. The proposed renovation scheme focuses on a home-and-hearth richness of elements such as wood, stone, natural light and soft carpet wrought with warmth, pattern and detail to create an inviting atmosphere at a cozy human scale. The rejuvenated, lifestyle-focused environment will capture the essence of comfort to enhance the Stratford shopping experience as the driving force of the mall’s re-tenanting efforts and the re-imaging of the center.
Design Achievement - The Hyatt Place brand offers downtown Champaign an upscale, select-service hotel well-suited to its location in the heart of the city. DLR Group's design integrates the new hotel into the urban fabric of the city through the use of brick and traditional detailing. Spacious guestrooms with an ergonomic work center feature state of the art technology to support the needs of the brand's customer base. Floors two through four comprise structured parking, with the guest rooms occupying the floors above. The architectural design treats parking level facades sensitively to maintain a strong, street front brand impression. Scope Summary - This new 145 room, 9-story, Hyatt Place in downtown Champaign includes an on-site parking structure for 145 cars. The 124,300 SF select service hotel features amenities inspired by the brand's multi-tasking 24/7 guest's lifestyle. A fitness center,coffee and wine bar, Grab-N-Go case, and guest kitchen are provided in the design. DLR Group provided architecture, interiors, and engineering services.
Design Achievement - Patterson Technologies is a national company providing software solutions, equipment, and supplies to serve the dental health care profession. DLR Group's design of their new office building gives workers a flexible and sustainable work environment aligned with the company's brand of being a trusted partner to healthcare providers. Column-free spans of workspace from the core to the perimeter walls allow for changes in space layout over time, allowing the building to adapt to the company's changing needs. Main entrance, training rooms, and cafeteria are offset in plan to take advantage of views as well as to create a hinge point for future expansion aligned with the site's natural contours. Window placement and design immerses workers and visitors in daylight and views of the preserved birch forest and restorative landscaping. Scope Summary - The scope of work encompassed design for 100,000 SF of new building serving 600 staff. Three stories house seven departments, as well as training and demonstration space. The envelope is a high-performance fiber-cement rain screen. Exterior materials reflect the technology ethos of Patterson while imparting richness through variegated color and texture. Diverse sustainable design strategies helped enable the project to earn LEED Silver certification. The building tucks into the natural slope of the site with bioswales to capture stormwater run-off, with additional landscaping including low-maintenance buffalo grass and native prairie plantings. Other green measures included building materials made of recycled content, occupancy sensors and daylight controls on light fixtures, and low flow plumbing fixtures (saving about 250,000 gallons of water every year). Additionally, fresh air is circulated in the building approximately every 6.5 hours. Exterior features include vegetation growth on the cafeteria roof to reduce heat and improve storm water collection; landscaping with plant material native to the area; a walking path around a pond that filters site storm drainage; and designated parking areas with charging stations reserved for fuel-efficient and electric vehicles. DLR Group provided architecture and interiors services in design-build delivery with S.M. Wilson.
Football program administrative and training facility. Administrative offices, meeting rooms, physical therapy, locker rooms, and support spaces. Facility built on School District Property, shared use of field. 15,200 SF
A rural school district in Crystal Lake, IL that serves 1,200 students, hired DLR Group to provide campus master planning and design services for a new 600-student middle school.  The school is organized around a central spine that separates the public spaces from the academic houses while allowing students to be visually connected to the outdoors.  It was important that the school be able to accommodate community functions after hours, thus the library, gymnasium and administration all have separate entries.  The eliptical community room is the focal point of the school and serves as the symbolic center of the Crystal Lake community.   Design features: Classroom wings create grade separation and identity Classroom wings create outdoor space associated with grade level (outdoor classrooms) High degree of natural light in all spaces-Improves academic scores-Increases student health, reducing absenteeism Multitude of social spaces and informal learning spaces Social spaces are interesting, places that people want to occupy Clear identity and formal response to program Public access separate from student access Wings can be secured for after hours use Visual connection between the interior and exterior improves security Visual connection between floors – improves security and sense of community Provides several areas for independent expansion Maximizes flexibility of facility use
Design Achievement – To meet the changing needs of the health care industry, the Mennonite College of Nursing at Illinois State University desired a new simulation lab to immerse students in a real-world learning environment and encourage informal student and faculty interaction. DLR Group’s design of the Nursing Simulation Laboratory incorporates a working hospital environment into a university instructional laboratory. The new facility blends simulation lab technology with modern social learning spaces to create a holistic learning environment where students develop the skills they will use in clinical practice. Patient simulations are as close to real-world nursing interactions as possible, addressing a wide variety of acute and general care nursing scenarios. Labs are set up to mirror hospital nursing stations and patient rooms as well as doctor’s offices with exam rooms. There are two-way mirrors and video capture capabilities to allow for real-time feedback to students. Scope Summary – The scope for this 9,600 SF Nursing Simulation Lab included skills and assessment classrooms, patient simulation areas, simulation equipment, patient exam rooms, and staff offices. Clinical simulation experts use the patient areas and equipment to provide training in a virtual hospital environment with high fidelity patient simulator technology. DLR Group provided architecture, and electrical and mechanical engineering for this project.
Design Achievement – The Prairie Grove School District was interested in revisiting their facilities master plan with a new emphasis on creating spaces to serve 21st Century learning. DLR Group was engaged to work with the district, analyzing existing facilities for educational and operational adequacy, and develop a series of conceptual scenarios for modifying district facilities with associated costs. The selected scenarios, now integrated into the district’s master plan, will shape the implementation of facility renovations and support evolving curriculum and program decisions. Scope Summary – The district serves approximately 800 students from early childhood through grade 8 in an elementary school serving pre-kindergarten through grade 5 and a junior high school serving students in grades 6-8. DLR Group assessed the facilities’ educational adequacy to support the district’s desired course offerings, developed a description of programmatic space needs, then worked with district stakeholders to fit spatial and operational requirements to existing facilities. From among the many possible solutions, those that best delivered educationally sound and fiscally appropriate results were leveraged into an integrated solution, documented and integrated into the district’s master plan. DLR Group provided master planning services.
With improvements to building systems and aesthetic updates students will learn in an environment more conducive to learning. Physical improvements provide a more comfortable, safer, and friendly environment in which students can engage education.
Design Narrative: Benedictine University underwent their first campus master plan in 130 years of existence. The services included department zoning and relocation plans, phased planning solutions, benchmarking, space efficiency reductions, and an inventory of campus space. The new plan integrates current facility conditions, parking, vehicular and pedestrian circulation, academic plans, sustainability plans and the input of numerous staff, faculty, students, local businesses and community organizations. To gather this information, DLR Group worked extensively with Benedictine University to analyze department space needs and figure out how to implement the changes across all campus buildings. The goals for this multi-campus master plan aligned with the university’s academic and strategic plan. To ensure goals were met, DLR Group educated and engaged campus stakeholders on the master planning process. Scope Summary: A campus-wide implementation plan with budgets and schedule were provided at the start of the project to ensure the multi-campus master plan was completed on time. DLR Group worked with a wide variety of stakeholders during a multitude of engagement sessions in order to develop a master plan that was all-encompassing. The master plan resulted in phased implementation, costs and project phasing. It also focused on residential life. Housing and dining solutions responded to aging facilities/flexible alternatives to address the changing enrollment were included. A new residence hall and learning community was coordinated with facility improvements for students interested in science and technology. DLR Group provided master planning, facility assessment, architecture, interiors, and commissioning services.
Design Narrative This unique space boasts custom-designed lab tables in an amphitheater layout that provide each student with direct sightlines to the instructor table and the integrated, state-of-the-art,  technology 'teaching wall.' To address the faculties highest priority, that the new space accommodate both classroom lecture and lab work, the lab tables are designed with two distinct areas, 'dry' - which provides space for taking notes and working on laptops , and 'wet' - which holds a sink, microscopes and laboratory utilities including hot and cold water, natural gas, compressed air and a vacuum. This dual-sided design enables the space to be used for traditional lectures as well as hands-on experimentation - all in the same space.   Technology is integrated into the classroom with an interactive Smartboard at the front teaching wall, and sound reinforcement via ceiling speakers. The infrastructure is in place to support future data and technology that will be incorporated into the individual lab tables as well as classroom cameras to support distance and blended learning.     Scope Narrative The project involves the complete renovation of two existing classrooms into a new science lab and lab preparation area plus a storage room. The completed 1,600 square foot lab space includes all new mechanical, electrical, plumbing, lab equipment and casework.   The new lab accommodates 36 students, plus instructors for Biology and Chemistry and includes a new HVAC system with a constant volume exhaust system and new direct/indirect pendant light fixtures. Each component in the system was evaluated to provide advanced safety and energy-saving features that meet the college’s sustainability goals. The scope of work also involves re-routing the new systems through a lower level mechanical room and existing locker rooms.
Design Achievement After a successful and informative year of working with DLR Group, New Trier Township High School District was interested in continuing its relationship and exploring additional opportunities for lowering its operational costs. DLR Group obtained funding through the Smart Energy Design Assistance Center (SEDAC) program to conduct retro-commissioning services of the campus, identifying a series of improvements impacting electrical and natural gas utilization with a simple payback period of 1.5 years or less. With a final retro-commissioning report in hand, the district can decide which of these improvements they wish to pursue. Scope Summary DLR Group's energy services team worked with the district’s maintenance and engineering staff to assess equipment operations, analyze usage, identify potential system improvements and associated cost impacts. DLR Group provided retro-commissioning services.
Design Achievement The client was interested in assessing the performance of the chiller supply and return lines at the TTX Railroads facility. DLR Group conducted an operational analysis over a 20-week period, providing data to support recommendations for a more efficient, cost-effect system. Scope Summary DLR Group's energy services team worked with the building owner’s maintenance and engineering staff to assess equipment operations, analyze usage, identify potential system improvements and associated cost impacts. DLR Group provided retro-commissioning services.
As a result of the continuing growing student population at Benedictine University, the campus required additional general classrooms and flexible student study space. In total, the Birck Hall Basement was able to incorporate seven new general classrooms, one large lecture center, and a seminar room for teaching. The project also included a new Bioinformatics Lab for their expanding Computer Science program. The “left over” corridor spaces were turned into much needed quiet and collaborative study spaces that double as break out spaces. These spaces can be utilized while classes are in session and special detail was paid to ensure that they do not feel “basement-like”. In addition to the teaching spaces, a NMR (nuclear magnet resonance) Laboratory with FM-200 system was constructed. Infrastructure improvements included a new air handling unit and finishing the existing mud slab into a new concrete floor.
Judah Christian School was founded in 1983 to serve students in grades 7-10. Within two years the program expanded to grades 7-12, and a year later added an elementary education program. A series of school additions allowed the program to accomodate a K through 12 program. The school is now looking at options for building a new campus. DLR Group was hired as a design consultant to the architectural team, assessing a number of sites for possible use. After discussions and analysis, the Board decided to defer the project to a future date.
Working within an existing design/build MACC, the DLR Group team was awarded the renovation of Buildings 322 and 520, as well as the demolition of Building 2C for NAVFAC at Great Lakes Naval Base. Phase A consists of renovation of Building 520 including: demolition, carpentry, doors/hardware, finishes, miscellaneous specialties, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical. Once renovations are complete furniture, fixtures, and equipment from 322 will be relocated to 520 to support the newly renovated administrative and training spaces. Phase A also includes parking lot revisions to accommodate bus access and to provide four bus waiting lanes complete with electrical power stations and light bollards. Phase B includes the renovation of 322 to include: demolition, masonry, miscellaneous metals, carpentry, doors/hardware, finishes, miscellaneous specialties, fire protection, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical. Once renovations are complete furniture, fixtures, equipment from 2C will be relocated to 322 to support new operational programmed spaces. Phase C consists of asbestos abatement and complete building demolition of the three-story (approximately 53,000 SF) 2C. The Personnel Support Detachments (PSD) is moving from Building 2C to Building 322. The PSD offers customer service to members, which include areas of pay, personnel, and transportation support. The SPECWAR is moving from Building 322 to Building 520.
Named for its location at turn four of Chicagoland Speedway, Turn 4 Club is a freestanding suite and club building designed to accommodate 600 people. The club is designed as a flexible, year-round space with indoor banquet facilities, trackside outdoor patio, party areas and a full cooking kitchen. Varying in capacities between 20 and 40 people, the club’s 12 suites each have exterior, club-style seating with additional private viewing balconies in the two premium suites. The roof deck weaves sustainable features into additional lounge areas and open-air viewing platforms.
Design Achievement – Adapting this original farmhouse from 1852 into the Neff Farmhouse Alumni Welcome Center pays respect to the University's history and establishes the next chapter of the farmhouse's and University's future. DLR Group's design transforms the two-story dwelling, once housing the monks who founded Benedictine University, into a gallery and events space with exposed limestone walls and timber framing. To ensure that an addition lived harmoniously with the original farmhouse, all limestone used for the new construction was extracted from the original quarry that provided the existing stone. The event plaza in front of the Alumni Center is a representation of the Benedictine Medallion, symbolizing the beginning of a student's collegiate journey at the University, while paying homage to the University's foundation and history. Scope Summary – The scope of work encompassed a 1,900 SF renovation and 600 SF addition to a historic farmhouse. The renovation portion of the building provides gallery and event space while the addition houses office space, a lounge, a large conference room, and support spaces. DLR Group provided architectural and interior design services.
Per S.Cavanaugh Dec 2011 Patterson Technology Center Effingham, IL     Design Achievement   The project sits at the edge of a natural birch forest which has been preserved.  Views to this amenity from the open office are captured with continuous glazing from the desktops to the ceilings. The building tucks into the natural slope of the site, and bioswales will be incorporated for stormwater run-off.  The entire landscaping concept is ecologically restorative, utilizing low-maintainence buffalo grass and native prairie plantings.  The project will be LEED certified, and is currently tracking Silver certification.  The building envelope is a high-performance fiber-cement rainscreen. The exterior building materials reflect Patterson's technology ethos while imparting richness through variegated color and texture. On the interior, the value of daylighting is optimized through intelligent lighting control systems.  The building is designed for flexibility with column-free spans from the core to the perimeter walls. The project's main entrance, training rooms, and cafeteria are offset in plan to take advantage of views and to create a hinge point for future expansion that will align with the existing natural contours of the site.     Scope Summary   100,000 sf, three-story office building housing  Patterson Technologies, a national company providing  software solutions, equipment, and supplies to serve the dental health care profession. It houses seven departments and functions as a training and demonstration center. It also houses technical professionals who develop software and support the customers who use it.  The project includes food service and fitness amenities as well as a roof terrace with views of the forest.  The building is designed to house 540 employees.
As part of the continuing growing student population at Benedictine University, the campus required additional general classrooms and flexible student study space. In total, the Birck Hall Basement was able to incorporate seven new general classrooms, one large lecture center, and a seminar room for teaching. The project also included a new Bioinformatics Lab for their expanding Computer Science program. The "left over" corridor spaces were turned into much needed quiet and collaborative study spaces that double as break out spaces. The may be utilized while classes are in session and apecial detail was paid to ensure that they do not feel "basement-like". In addition to the teaching spaces, a NMR (nuclear magnet resonance) Laboratory with FM-200 system was constructed. Infrastructure improvements included a new air handling unit and finishing the existing mud slab into a new concrete floor.
Design Achievement The building owner was interested in lowering its operational costs. DLR Group obtained funding through the ComEd Smart Ideas for Your Business Retro-Commissioning program to conduct retro-commissioning services of the campus, identifying a series of improvements impacting electrical and natural gas utilization. The project's projected savings targets were 275,000 kWh/year in electrical usage. With a final retro-commissioning report in hand, the owner can decide which of these improvements they wish to pursue. Scope Summary DLR Group's energy services team worked with the building owner’s maintenance and engineering staff to assess equipment operations, analyze usage, identify potential system improvements and associated cost impacts. DLR Group provided retro-commissioning services.
Design Achievement - Adjustable Forms, Inc., a cast-in-place concrete contractor, wanted the expansion and renovation of an existing office and warehouse facility to showcase the company’s work while expanding their own knowledge of concrete and its potential. DLR Group's design is a reflection of concrete as both a material and a process. Several methods of concrete construction are used to showcase the owner's technical ability: post-tension roof and floor slabs; full-height thermally broken and insulated sandwich walls; integrally colored, stamped, and polished concrete flooring; and traditional reinforced concrete. The design limited the materials used to provide a pure, minimalist aesthetic. Color, texture, and concrete mix were explored and experimented with throughout the design process. A high-performance rain screen system with dark zinc panels was used to bring a sophisticated contrast to exposed concrete massing. On the interior, daylighting is optimized with skylights and continuous perimeter glazing. LED lighting and radiant flooring are used throughout to maximize energy efficiency. Scope Summary - This project encompassed design of an 8,000-SF, one-story office building, and 12,145-SF warehouse. The building includes offices for contractors, an employee lounge, collaboration areas, a specialized BIM room, a courtyard, and storage to house large concrete equipment. The office is designed to accommodate 16 full time employees. The project is LEED certified. DLR Group provided architectural design.
Design Achievement North Shore School District was interested in lowering operational costs at its Oak Terrace Elementary School. DLR Group obtained funding through the Smart Energy Design Assistance Center (SEDAC) program to conduct retro-commissioning services of the campus, identifying a series of improvements impacting electrical and natural gas utilization with a simple payback period of 1.5 years or less. With a final retro-commissioning report in hand, the district can decide which of these improvements they wish to pursue. Scope Summary DLR Group's energy services team worked with the district’s maintenance and engineering staff to assess equipment operations, analyze usage, identify potential system improvements and associated cost impacts. DLR Group provided retro-commissioning services.
Design Achievement Bradley-Bourbonnais Community High School needed a building that would accommodate student population growth and support use by the surrounding community. Amid meetings with District Administrators and workshops with the community, DLR Group conducted a facility study to evaluate whether the current high school building would suit the district’s needs. Consequently, DLR Group’s design of a renovation/infill addition increased the school’s useable space by redefining numerous prior additions and addressed age-related maintenance concerns, all while meeting the spatial challenges brought by a limited site. Scope Summary The building renovation and infill additions were completed in three phases. This first phase fills in the existing courtyard between the original 1948 building, 1954 addition and 1961 addition. In doing so, there are 15 new classrooms, a sky-lit atrium with weight/cardio room, and new toilet rooms. Upgrades to the mechanical, electrical and sprinkler systems were also completed in this phase.
Design Narrative: To better serve the modern student, Benedictine University reinvented their library. The existing inefficient library was located across four different floors in Kindlon Hall. The physical separation caused several security issues as well as general confusion about where to find materials and resources. Taking a holistic approach, DLR Group created a solution that simplifies layout and updates the characteristics of the library into a modern resource and learning center. The concept consists of three levels where each level hosts a different function. The lower level houses the book collections, the second level provides informal group study areas, and the third level contains individual study areas. With its multitude of spaces and conveniences, the new Kindlon Library and Learning Center supports a diverse population of students and their study habits. Scope Summary: The scope of the project involves a 30,000 square foot area. The space contains a circulation desk, areas for reading and group study rooms. The special collections room is equipped with special humidity control, trench drains for flood protection and a gaseous fire protection system to prevent any water damage of the material. Four new classrooms, designed and equipped as modern, flexible learning environments, complete the lower level. The second level incorporates informal group study areas that create a positive and collaborative environment. Color adds visual excitement throughout the design and furnishings. Tables in a variety of sizes provide students with an array of studying options. Sofas and televisions in the lounge spaces provide students a comfortable and relaxing study space. The third level implements an environment designed for individual study. Rows of study carrels give each student their desired privacy, while conveniently providing power and data at each station. Smaller, movable tables throughout the space provide flexible seating arrangements to accommodate diverse study styles. Also included are the reference help and IT help counters which, placed in this location, provide students with convenient support for questions they have or technology problems they may encounter.
Optima Soulsight/Brand Vision, a design and brand identity firm, approached DLR Group to design a new freestanding office building emphasizing their sincere interest in the quality of their employees' work environment. DLR Group synthesized their needs with sustainable solutions. The design features a partial second floor mezzanine which overlooks the naturally lit, creative studio. The quality of the natural light in the studio is enhanced by both the height and the northern exposure of the glass. The exterior materials include glazed brick, cedar siding, fiber cement panels, and high performance low e-glass, both tinted and transparent, with high viable light transmission to maximize daylighting. The structural system is parallel stand lumber. The ventilation concept includes high operable sashes on the south facade and low operable sashes on the north to provide natural cross ventilation.
DLR Group was retained to remodel six juvenile detention cottages of 48 units each. The upgrade of materials and other security measures enabled an increase in security level, from minimum/medium to medium/maximum.
Design Achievement - Rockford Public Schools was facing a number of building concerns including several outdated facilities and a pending desegregation lawsuit. The district hired DLR Group to partner with them and the community to develop a long-range Strategic Facilities Plan, enhancing the learning environment for its students and staff. The plan includes a demographic study of the district to analyze enrollment trends and projections, a comprehensive review of all district facilities, and community engagement meetings to set the short term and long term vision for education of all district students. Pursuant to an extensive analysis of each elementary school, the team developed three capital improvement scenarios that supported the district’s educational vision and adhered to the Board’s Guiding Principles. Extensive community engagement resulted in a final recommendation, encompassing closures, additions, renovations, and new construction. Work will be implemented in phases over the next with a strong focus on equitable quality educational opportunities for all students across the district. Scope Summary - Rockford Public Schools offers a rich and varied curriculum to its 28,000 students. With several pedagogical changes underway at the middle and high school levels, the planning team was charged to focus its work on elementary facilities. An analysis of educational adequacy and efficiency was carried out at each of the 32 elementary schools assessing energy use, condition, and educational adequacy, which in turn generated a series of “dashboard” graphics allowing an objective comparison of each elementary school using a common set of criteria. With the Superintendent’s cabinet and then the Facility Task Force Committee, the team developed a set of Guiding Principles for 21st Century learning environments. Equipped with Guiding Principles, the district-wide analysis, and an educational space program to support the district’s vision, the team led a series of community meetings engaging over 1000 people. Feedback gathered during these meetings led to the development of a final recommendation which is to be implemented over the next five years. DLR Group provided master planning and programming services.
DLR Group evaluated a previously developed Life Safety report for the district's Kindergarten Center that addressed both life safety and capital improvements. Multiple projects addressed renovations to mechanical, electrical, fire sprinkler, roof and envelope systems. Security improvements and upgrades to finishes were also incorporated. The work was implemented over the summers of 2008, 2009 and phased construction with minimal disruption throughout the 2010/11 school year.
As part of a 400,000SF interior renovation at Kraft Headquarters in Northfield, Illinois, DLR Group and Whitney are collaborating on numerous transformational design initiatives including a renovated entrance court and exterior façade changes. The project is designed in phases and each piece was assessed for value as it pertained to the cultural transformation supporting Kraft’s new business initiatives. Phase 1 interior renovation is underway with a May 2013 completion date.
Design Achievement - To respond to increasing enrollment the Champaign School District planned to construct a new high school. However, they needed assistance in identifying a suitable site that would satisfy their needs and meet with voter approval. DLR Group was engaged to lead a team including district officials, educators, real estate professionals and brokers to identify and evaluate multiple sites within the city limits. With a prioritized list of site options, the Board was able to enter into negotiations for site acquisition. Scope Summary - DLR Group led a team to assess a number of identified sites for suitability in terms of size, circulation, utilities and site infrastructure, availability and land cost. DLR Group provided planning and assessment services.
To better serve the modern student, Benedictine University reinvented their library. The existing inefficient library was located across four different floors in Kindlon Hall. The physical separation caused several security issues as well as general confusion about where to find materials and resources. Taking a holistic approach, DLR Group created a solution that simplifies layout and updates the characteristics of the library into a modern resource and learning center. The concept consists of three levels where each level hosts a different function. The lower level houses the book collections, the second level provides informal group study areas, and the third level contains individual study areas. All book collections are consolidated into a single area in the previously unused lower level of Kindlon Hall. Books are shelved using a high density storage system that efficiently uses the limited space. The space also contains a circulation desk, areas for reading and group study rooms. The special collections room is equipped with special humidity control, trench drains for flood protection and a gaseous fire protection system to prevent any water damage of the material. Four new classrooms, designed and equipped as modern, flexible learning environments, complete the lower level. The second level incorporates informal group study areas that create a positive and collaborative environment. Color adds visual excitement throughout the design and furnishings. Tables in a variety of sizes provide students with an array of studying options. Sofas and televisions in the lounge spaces provide students a comfortable and relaxing study space. The third level implements an environment designed for individual study. Rows of study carrels give each student their desired privacy, while conveniently providing power and data at each station. Smaller, movable tables throughout the space provide flexible seating arrangements to accommodate diverse study styles. Also included are the reference help and IT help counters which, placed in this location, provide students with convenient support for questions they have or technology problems they may encounter. With its multitude of spaces and conveniences, the new Kindlon Library and Learning Center supports a diverse population of students and their study habits.
Benedictine University partnered with the College of DuPage to offer Nursing and Nutrition programs that were the final steps for the educational institutions to offer a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing.  One of the final requirements for their accreditation required the University to bring their current office and operations up to compliance.  Working on an aggressive schedule, DLR Group was commissioned to design two separate office suites. One for the Department of Nursing, which was to be shared with the Department of Public Health and the second, a new home for the Department of Nutrition.  Within a few short months, the space was designed, permitted, constructed, and occupied in time for the fall semester.     A welcoming reception area with clear separation of space was created to provide the Department of Nursing and Department of Public Health distinct identities.  Beyond the reception area, a cubicle farm was converted into a conference room, three shared offices, and seven private offices.  This optimized the space by housing more staff and offering a collaborative environment in the technology rich conference room.  The shared offices provide the adjunct faculty with a place to reside, while maintaining flexibility.  The private offices have the required privacy for faculty to meet with students.  The Department of Nutrition has a similar configuration with a welcoming reception area that fronts the   open office area. The design of the open office space work stations with a general collaboration area supported the department’s desire for open communication.  The collaboration area is flanked with private offices. The project design and construction schedules were met with success prior to the start of the academic calendar.  Meanwhile, the space exceeds expectations for the programs to operate and function far into the future.  With an unparalleled team effort, the program achieved its accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Design Achievement The building owner, Lincoln Properties was interested in pursuing IEQ certification and required assistance generating required documentation. DLR Group's energy team was hired to analyze current mechanical systems and provide the mandatory materials. Scope Summary DLR Group's energy services team worked with the building owner’s maintenance and engineering staff to assess equipment operations and qualitify air quality. DLR Group provided an Indoor Air Quality Audit Report and calculations required for IEQ certification.
The project scope of work is understood to be:  Development of a new approx. 7,815 GSF multitenant retail building located on Lot C of the existing Lincolnshire Commons retail center.  Additionally, DLR Group will provide services addressing the LLW letters provided by GGP for Chipotle, Naf Naf, and Bombay.
Design Achievement - Lake County had a vision of recreating the existing facility to operate more efficiently. The new Phase One addition to the Robert W. Depke Juvenile Justice Center was the implementation of a plan that had been 12 years in the planning. DLR Group’s design created a new, centralized and secure entry point for the facility, segregating the public and staff securely from the juveniles and adult offenders and consolidating the receiving area into one assured a beneficial outcome on the juvenile community. DLR Group’s design met the need for a strong, secure connectivity between this new courthouse annex and the existing detention center, while simultaneously allowing for a true new campus front entrance to be established. The facility is organized around a central, transparent public atrium. Offices are organized in a light-filled linear bar, with two levels of pairs of juvenile hearing rooms, each with a secure holding core and private judicial chambers and staff corridors. The building sits back on the site to allow for expanded staff and public parking lots, and a gracious public plaza that allows for a pedestrian scaled transition to the building for the first time on this existing campus. In an effort to reduce energy consumption, DLR Group designed the building on an east-west axis to reduce heat load during the summer and allow the sun to help heat the facility during the winter. The building’s interiors are organized around a secure circulation path that allows the public and staff to be linked to the outside with views through the building and beyond.. The new facility provides a welcoming and non-adversarial presentation to the campus. Scope Summary - DLR Group provided integrated design services for the new 38,258 SF Phase 1 courthouse addition. The new facility includes the addition of three juvenile hearing rooms and one jury-capable courtroom. A secure elevator with two holding cells per court floor provides security and safety for each courtroom. A single, protected screening lobby for the entire facility is provided in a transparent entrance and provides first floor access to counters for the juvenile circuit clerk and victim witness rooms in suites for the state’s attorney office. On the second level of the office bar, there are offices for public defender and guardian ad litem suites, along with an office space for court monitors. The facility provides an area for new campus infrastructure for boilers, HVAC and technology. Spaces are provided for both county and secure judicial servers, along with spaces for implementing electronic court reporting. The design of shelled space on the third level of the new facility provides long-term growth potential. DLR Group provided architecture, engineering and planning services.
Design Achievement Rockford School District was interested in lowering operational costs at its Ellis and Lemon Elementary Schools. DLR Group obtained funding through the Smart Energy Design Assistance Center (SEDAC) program to conduct retro-commissioning services of the campus, identifying a series of improvements impacting electrical and natural gas utilization with a simple payback period of 1.5 years or less. With a final retro-commissioning report in hand, the district can decide which of these improvements they wish to pursue. Scope Summary DLR Group's energy services team worked with the district’s maintenance and engineering staff to assess equipment operations, analyze usage, identify potential system improvements and associated cost impacts. DLR Group provided retro-commissioning services.
Design Narrative: The new Student Residence Hall at Benedictine University represents a major stage of growth in the University’s development. The 400 bed residence hall puts a stake in the ground as a new precedent of campus residential life, and initiates replacement of outdated buildings currently on campus. The future of campus residential life for Benedictine can continue in years to come as additional phases of the project are developed and constructed. The residence hall aims to help Benedictine focus efforts on the students’ desires for a sense of community. Incorporation of active lounges for connecting and socializing, passive lounges for studying, direct connections to ground level retail destinations, and the Benedictine Underground, all contribute a variety of special amenities to the building for enhanced student experiences. Outdoor connections are paramount in the design, layout and positioning of the building on campus. Entry points into the building capture direct student paths to and from the campus quad. A courtyard at the main entrance captures retail activity and the dynamics of student flow and interaction through campus. A courtyard at the opposite side of the building achieves a sense of privacy, with a more intimate outdoor experience and setting. Additional green space surrounding the southern end of the building helps create a link to the existing Jaeger Hall, and promotes student interaction between residence halls. Flexibility is directly incorporated into the project as well. Benedictine will have the ability to renovate as needs arise, while maintaining the core elements of the building. Overall, the new residence hall will capture the essence of residential life for Benedictine University students, with state-of-the-art amenities and a truly defined sense of community through multiple avenues of interaction. Scope Summary: This project includes 400 beds.
The project scope of work is understood to be:  Development of a new approx. 7,815 GSF multitenant retail building located on Lot C of the existing Lincolnshire Commons retail center.  Additionally, DLR Group will provide services addressing the LLW letters provided by GGP for Chipotle, Naf Naf, and Bombay.
Mount Carmel Fieldhouse and Convocation Center - Phase One was successful in August of 2005 with the construction of the Mount Carmel Convocation Center. Officially the books were closed on Phase One when the goal of $17.5 million in pledges was reached in March of 2007. This $17.5 million structure is a state-of-the-art academic and athletic facility. It serves as a bold statement that Mount Carmel is primed for a bright future. The facility, home to the Cacciatore Athletic Center, features Science and Computer labs, the Purdy Family Student Commons, a kitchen, Athletic Offices, new locker rooms, Gilmore Hall, which houses The Frank Kiszka Alumni Suite, the Office of the President, Institutional Advancement Offices, and a media center.
Design Achievement Rockford School District was interested in lowering operational costs at its Ellis and Lemon Elementary Schools. DLR Group obtained funding through the Smart Energy Design Assistance Center (SEDAC) program to conduct retro-commissioning services of the campus, identifying a series of improvements impacting electrical and natural gas utilization with a simple payback period of 1.5 years or less. With a final retro-commissioning report in hand, the district can decide which of these improvements they wish to pursue. Scope Summary DLR Group's energy services team worked with the district’s maintenance and engineering staff to assess equipment operations, analyze usage, identify potential system improvements and associated cost impacts. DLR Group provided retro-commissioning services.
To better serve the modern student, Benedictine University reinvented their library. The existing inefficient library was located across four different floors in Kindlon Hall. The physical separation caused several security issues as well as general confusion about where to find materials and resources. Taking a holistic approach, DLR Group created a solution that simplifies layout and updates the characteristics of the library into a modern resource and learning center. The concept consists of three levels where each level hosts a different function. The lower level houses the book collections, the second level provides informal group study areas, and the third level contains individual study areas. All book collections are consolidated into a single area in the previously unused lower level of Kindlon Hall. Books are shelved using a high density storage system that efficiently uses the limited space. The space also contains a circulation desk, areas for reading and group study rooms. The special collections room is equipped with special humidity control, trench drains for flood protection and a gaseous fire protection system to prevent any water damage of the material. Four new classrooms, designed and equipped as modern, flexible learning environments, complete the lower level. The second level incorporates informal group study areas that create a positive and collaborative environment. Color adds visual excitement throughout the design and furnishings. Tables in a variety of sizes provide students with an array of studying options. Sofas and televisions in the lounge spaces provide students a comfortable and relaxing study space. The third level implements an environment designed for individual study. Rows of study carrels give each student their desired privacy, while conveniently providing power and data at each station. Smaller, movable tables throughout the space provide flexible seating arrangements to accommodate diverse study styles. Also included are the reference help and IT help counters which, placed in this location, provide students with convenient support for questions they have or technology problems they may encounter. With its multitude of spaces and conveniences, the new Kindlon Library and Learning Center supports a diverse population of students and their study habits.
Design Achievement Lockport Township High School District was interested in lowering its operational costs. DLR Group obtained funding through the Smart Energy Design Assistance Center (SEDAC) program to conduct retro-commissioning services of the campus, identifying a series of improvements impacting electrical and natural gas utilization with a simple payback period of 1.5 years or less. With a final retro-commissioning report in hand, the district can decide which of these improvements they wish to pursue. Scope Summary DLR Group's energy services team worked with the district’s maintenance and engineering staff to assess equipment operations, analyze usage, identify potential system improvements and associated cost impacts. DLR Group provided retro-commissioning services.
Design Achievement After a successful and informative year of working with DLR Group, Rockford School District was interested in continuing its assessment of opportunities for lowering operational costs at its Ellis and Lemon Elementary Schools. DLR Group obtained funding through the Smart Energy Design Assistance Center (SEDAC) program to conduct retro-commissioning services of the campus, identifying a series of improvements impacting electrical and natural gas utilization with a simple payback period of 1.5 years or less. With a final retro-commissioning report in hand, the district can decide which of these improvements they wish to pursue. Scope Summary DLR Group's energy services team worked with the district’s maintenance and engineering staff to assess equipment operations, analyze usage, identify potential system improvements and associated cost impacts. DLR Group provided retro-commissioning services.
Design Achievement – The Paxton-Buckley-Loda School District was interested in identifying a team partner who could facilitate a visioning process for future facility upgrades in support of an improved learning climate and reduced operational costs. DLR Group was commissioned to lead that effort. After assessing each of the district’s facilities for operational and educational adequacy, the team worked to express a vision for learning in the 21st Century and qualities of the built environment required to support that vision. The resultant Master Plan will guide the district as it looks to improve its facilities over the next five to ten years. Scope Summary – Paxton-Buckley-Loda CUSD No. 10 has an enrollment of approximately 1400 students housed in four buildings. The district is committed to providing an exceptional education designed exclusively for the needs of each student. The design team assessed an elementary school for students pre-K to grade 2, an elementary school for students in grades 3-5, a junior high school with students grades 6-8, and a grades 9-12 high school. The analysis encompassed both operational and educational adequacy aspects, leading to the development of a facility Master Plan. The central recommendation is to replace the century-old 3-5 grade building with a 65,000 SF new building or addition to one of the existing facilities. DLR Group provided master planning services.
The project features an S-shaped plan enclosing an active plaza on the campus side and ‘serene’ landscaped courtyard behind.  Double-height and day lit active lounge spaces with adjacent shared kitchens overlook the courtyards. This central hub which links the two wings of residences is designed to enhance interaction and achieve the client’s goal of strengthening the sense of community on campus. More intimate, quiet study lounge spaces are provided at the tips of the esses.  The east wing ground floor incorporates a sandwich and coffee shop with convenience store opening onto the active plaza, and the west wing’s residences are elevated above grade as the site drops off, enhancing privacy for those units while day lighting the lower level.
Design Achievement - The new Goodwin Hall College of Business academic building provides students with a transformative learning experience that supports Benedictine University's values-centered approach to business education through the development of fundamental management, ethical and socially responsible leadership, and critical-thinking and problem-solving skills. DLR Group's highly transparent design encourages collaboration through interactive and engaging classroom environments that feature modular furniture, the latest technology and thoughtful spatial juxtapositions that encourage formal and informal interactions. The facility anchors the south end of the quad - an expanse of grass, plants and trees, benches, sidewalks and landmark-style lamps – and features classrooms, social spaces and banquet areas to attract community members to campus. Several spaces are available for lectures, events and hoteling for local and global community organizations and businesses. For example, the Competency Assessment room, part of the executive partner’s suite, is a multipurpose room for corporate employers, student run business events, video coaching and project team rehearsals. Scope Summary - The new 125,000 SF facility is the home for the University’s graduate and undergraduate business programs, including the internationally-recognized Master of Science in Management and Organizational Behavior and doctoral programs in Organization Development and Values-Driven Leadership. Among the building’s many features is a 600-seat auditorium for presentations and lectures from leading business thinkers; a state-of-the-art trading lab that provides students with access to peer-ranked investment simulations, public and private company accounting and international economic data, and other real-time financial information; and a 6,000-square-foot “Global Hall” entrance area that includes an etched glass globe, digital stock ticker and billboard-sized high-definition media wall that can broadcast business news from across the world. A mixed-use gallery space and a 4th floor banquet room that overlooks the campus is available to lease by the broader community . The Center for Corporate Partnership includes an Executive Partner’s Suite that provides space for local and worldwide businesses to develop and deliver collaborative teaching and learning sessions. DLR Group provided architecture, interiors and commissioning services.
Design Achievement - The Rock Island County Courthouse was originally built in 1896 when the population was 50,000 and people arrived on horseback. The building is materially unchanged since then. An additional justice center was added in 2001, but the four courtrooms did not meet today's County design standards. Bonding created a funding mechanism for the new expansion project to supplement the existing justice center. DLR Group's design will add space for two high-volume traffic courtrooms and two family/domestic and civil hearing courtrooms and spaces needed to support for those courtrooms. The new design also equips citizens who are representing themselves in court through on-line and in-person resources and self-help kiosks. Scope Summary - The 215,000 Rock Island County Justice Center expansion project will not only improve existing operations but will re-utilize the existing historical structure in downtown Rock Island, lll. In addition to the four civil courtrooms, space is also allocated for clerk, state’s attorney, public defender. The facility will inter-connect many functions and departments, consolidating for more efficient use of space and smarter operational outcomes. DLR Group provided programming, planning and design services for this project.
Design Achievement - The new College of Business academic building at Benedictine University will elevate their mission to build a better world through business. It serves to anchor the south end of the Quad - an expanse of grass, plants and trees, benches, sidewalks, and landmark-style lamps – and features classrooms, social spaces and banquet areas to attract community members to campus. DLR Group’s design supports BenU’s focus on global partnership, stemming from their coordination with services abroad, as well as establishing itself in markets in places like China and Vietnam. The Global Hall educates the public on where companies are in the world and what they do. There is also a 16-screen matrix media wall that has the capability to display television channels, graphics, websites, movies, and presentations. The new building is designed to host an array of events like student organizations, event management, and hoteling for local and global businesses. Even more, it can host public or private events. For example, the Competency Assessment room, part of the executive partner’s suite, is a multipurpose room for corporate employers, student run business events, video coaching and project team rehearsals. Overall, the design will deliver education with transparency, an initiative intended to develop an interactive and collegial place for learning and interdepartmental awareness. Scope Summary - The new 125,000 SF facility has 21 educational spaces, including a 600 seat auditorium, a banquet hall, three computer classrooms and two distance learning classrooms to connect students across the globe. The building has available space capable of expanding an additional 12 classrooms. A mixed-use gallery space and a 4th floor banquet room allows the community to utilize the facility. Visitors and students can enjoy a birds-eye view of the campus from the 4th floor terrace. DLR Group designed a Center for Corporate Partnership, which includes an Executive Partner’s Suite, to bring local and worldwide businesses in for collaborative teaching and learning sessions. These spaces are primarily focused on development of undergraduate and master’s students.
Design Achievement – The Paxton-Buckley-Loda district facilities required over $12 million in Health and Life safety improvements. With such a substantial amount, the board decided to explore long-term options and engage the community in decision making. DLR Group and Reifsteck Reid were engaged to lead a planning and communication plan that assessed existing facilities, hosted several community engagement sessions to provide information and gather feedback, and develop options. The community supported the district’s plan to demolish an existing intermediate school, construct an addition to house students in grades 2-5, and renovate several classrooms to create 21st century learning environments while upgrading the school’s electrical, mechanical, and HVAC systems. The newly combined preK-5 facility maximizes the community's investment in its schools by reducing the overall footprint and maintenance costs while meeting the district's vision for teaching and learning. Scope Summary – The project consists of a 65,000 SF, two-story addition to the existing Clara Peterson Elementary School to house grades 2-5, and renovation of 35,600 SF of the existing campus. The addition features new STEM space, a large library and instructional support areas, a commons for large gatherings, a full-size gym, and upgraded HVAC system. DLR Group provided architectural and interior design services in partnership with Reifsteck Reid.
Design Achievement The Bradley-Bourbonnais Community High School District was interested in lowering its operational costs. DLR Group obtained funding through the Smart Energy Design Assistance Center (SEDAC) program to conduct retro-commissioning services of the campus, identifying a series of improvements impacting electrical and natural gas utilization with a simple payback period of 1.5 years or less. With a final retro-commissioning report in hand, the district can decide which of these improvements they wish to pursue. Scope Summary DLR Group's energy services team worked with the district’s maintenance and engineering staff to assess equipment operations, analyze usage, identify potential system improvements and associated cost impacts. DLR Group provided retro-commissioning services.
Design Achievement – The Blue Ridge School District knew their Mansfield Elementary School was near the end of its serviceable life and no longer able to deliver a 21st Century educational program to its students, and planned to replace the building with an affordable facility that would better serve students and communities. The design team, led by DLR Group, conducted a lively community visioning and planning process that resulted in a flexible, efficient addition to the existing Junior High School. The new elementary classrooms run along an east-west corridor in a linear arrangement which facilitated construction, provides equity to classrooms, and allows incremental future expansion to the east. Each classroom has access to a shared activity room, a skylit flexible space that changes use through the day in response to teacher and student needs dictate. With extensive use of glazing in classrooms and corridors alike, natural light is provided to all adjacent interior spaces. Scope Summary – The Mansfield Upper Elementary School is a 29,925 SF addition to the existing Junior High School housing 180 students in grades 4-6. This addition accommodates separate elementary-age interaction in age-appropriate classroom areas, with an increased operational efficiency of shared lunch, media center, music, indoor and outdoor athletic areas. Each classroom has its own alcove entry with space for student lockers and pre-function. A new gymnasium provides a central tall volume surrounded by the shorter academic and service functions. A west-facing entrance controls entry and exit of elementary students, and provides a covered exterior waiting area for bussed students, while an east-facing entrance provides direct access to play fields. DLR Group provided consulting architectural design services.
The project is a mechanical screen wall enclosure for two diesel generators, two chillers and one load bank on the northwest portion of the BMO Service Center site. Along with the above mentioned equipment, there are two underground fuel tanks to be located south of the enclosure. The equipment and enclosure requires modification of the existing parking lot and drive aisles. The screen wall design responds the functional requirements of the equipment. Perforated metal panels are located to accommodate the appropriate location of air intakes for the equipment, while precast concrete wall panels with reveals are used to relate to the existing building. Landscaping has been added to the north and south of the enclosure to further screen the facility and soften the addition of the structure.
Design Achievement - Cameron Elementary was originally built in 1897 as a three-story, load-bearing, masonry building. Subsequent additions and renovations throughout the early 20th century, expanded it to a four-story, 120,000 SF, block-long facility. Chicago Public Schools requested DLR Group’s services to design and document much needed improvements including a new elevator within the original 1897 portion of the building, an extensive masonry restoration, site upgrades, creation of an accessible entrance and accessibility upgrades to restrooms, a full roofing replacement, plus a thorough renovation of interior finishes. Destructive investigation half-way through design revealed a completely different structural system than depicted in archive drawings. Our design was quickly and carefully revised to respond to the new information with no time lost to the already tight schedule. Scope Summary - DLR Group completed a full code analysis which allowed for the elimination of a deteriorating fire escape. Narratives, diagrams, and an eventual face-to-face meeting with City of Chicago permitting staff led by DLR Group confirmed the recommendations and solidified design direction prior to permitting to ensure no surprises or lost time later in the process. Clear way-finding signage and subtle plan rearrangements significantly improve student use and circulation throughout the school. Thoughtful renovation on a limited budget ensures that student benefit is not lost to envelope and infrastructure improvements. Durable materials and timeless, bright finishes will stand the test while meeting 100-year Chicago Public School building standards. The result is a successful project that preserves a piece of the community, breathes new life into an aging facility, and improves the education experience for our youth. DLR Group provided architectural design services.
Design Achievement – The Paxton-Buckley-Loda district facilities required over $12 million in Health and Life safety improvements. With such a substantial amount, the board decided to explore long-term options and engage the community in decision making. DLR Group and Reifsteck Reid were engaged to lead a planning and communication plan that assessed existing facilities, hosted several community engagement sessions to provide information and gather feedback, and develop options. The community supported the district’s plan to demolish an existing intermediate school, construct an addition to house students in grades 2-5, and renovate several classrooms to create 21st century learning environments while upgrading the school’s electrical, mechanical, and HVAC systems. Scope Summary – The project consists of a 65,000 SF, two-story addition to the existing Clara Peterson Elementary School to house grades 2-5, and renovation of 35,600 SF of the existing campus. DLR Group provided architectural and interior design services in partnership with Reifsteck Reid.
Design Achievement - Owned by Friedman Properties, the Hyatt Place River North lobby was renovated to enhance the hotel guest experience, bringing a more local character to the Hyatt brand and model. DLR Group's design implements a new Lettuce Entertain You Restaurant concept to attract the modern traveler, complementing the lobby space addition and improving the existing traditional hotel breakfast option. Through DLR Group's coordination, the look and feel of the connecting lobby and restaurant entrance resulted in a blended and seamless walkway. The exterior renovation highlights two, 18-foot bi-folding doors used as windows. The interior facelift created a new feature wall inspired by an abstraction of the Chicago street grid and the city’s “urbs in horto” concept, meaning “city in a garden”. The 7-foot trellis extending from the addition area created a fresh patio space, breathing new street life to the block. Scope Summary - Scope of core-and-shell work includes an 830 SF addition and 2,500 SF of lobby renovation into a new grab-n-go market, business center, updated front desk and a feature wall inspired by local Chicago materials. DLR Group provided architecture, interior design, MEP engineering services, and coordination of planning of all disciplines and construction administration services.
DLR Group provided Fundamental and Enhanced Commissioning services for the new Cushman & Wakefield global headquarters at 225 West Wacker in Chicago. Their new space spans the building’s top four floors and incorporates state-of-the-art conference and office areas, flexible commons, and two roof decks with panoramic views of the river and Chicago skyline. Project Location: Chicago, IL Total square feet: 83,000 sf Completion date: 2016 Construction Cost: Undisclosed Client Type: Workplace, Commercial Real Estate Project Contact: Eric Rudin, Senior Project Management Director Cushman & Wakefield Direct: 312/871-5034, Mobile: 773/459-5920 eric.rudin@cushwake.com
Design Narrative The master plan for Chicago Sports Village (CSV) is designed to enhance Chicago’s reputation as a world-class destination for Sports Tourism. The 80-acre public/private community redevelopment will benefit Chicago children through activities and special programming and provide lease opportunities for competition and recreation activities to regional higher education and K-12 institutions. The project will generate over 1,000 construction jobs and create over 750 permanent jobs providing significant economic development and growth.   Scope Narrative $500M development to include a variety of State-of-the-Art sports venues, a Retail, Commercial & Hotel Complex and Corporate Housing.   Some of the sports venues include: Multipurpose Building, Indoor/Outdoor Track & Field, Aquatics including a USA Rowing Training Center, Year Round Outdoor Ski & Snowboarding Hill, Indoor Ice Hockey, Indoor Golf Simulation, Indoor/Outdoor Baseball & Softball, Indoor/Outdoor Soccer, a USTA Player Development & International Tennis Tournament Stadium, BMX/Skateboard park, a Sports Performance Center and Boys and Girls Club, Sports Academies and a Charter school for at risk youth.
Design Achievement – The Will County Public Safety Complex centralizes six Will County Sheriff Department facilities formerly located in individual locations across the city of Joliet, Illinois, into a single facility. The new 87,000 SF complex improves access and services for the citizens of Will County while improving communication and morale of public safety officers and staff. The design of the building impacts the community’s consolidated customer service experience by providing a higher level of privacy for the building’s users. The county took on a leadership role in developing a public-safety answering point (PSAP), which includes a consolidated 911 center. During design, the Sheriff’s Department requested a separate level of security for the county’s Emergency Telephone System Board(ETSB) and the PASP office to segregate these operations from the Sheriff’s offices. The design solution provides a separate and secure entrance and isolated operational space for ETSB, which is now partitioned from both the Sheriff’s headquarters and the 911 Center. Scope Summary – This project is the first phase of a master plan that DLR Group completed in 2012 for the Laraway Campus, the location of the original sheriff’s building. The scope of this project was the design of a new Will County Public Safety Complex occupying 87,000 SF of program space. The sheriff’s portion of the building occupies 67,000 SF, a 911 center occupies 15,000 SF, and the public-safety answering point occupies 5,000 SF. The building was designed to accommodate 474 sworn and 128 civilian men and women of the Will County Public Safety Complex. The facility includes shared staff and public training and meeting rooms, lock up/holding areas, large evidence storage, and specialty offices for investigators, patrol officers and administration. DLR Group provided master planning, architecture, engineering, programming, and interior design. http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/daily-southtown/ct-sta-safety-complex-dedication-st-0627-story.html
Design Achievement Oak Lawn Community High School District was interested in lowering its operational costs. DLR Group obtained funding through the Smart Energy Design Assistance Center (SEDAC) program to conduct retro-commissioning services of the campus, identifying a series of improvements impacting electrical and natural gas utilization with a simple payback period of 1.5 years or less. With a final retro-commissioning report in hand, the district can decide which of these improvements they wish to pursue. Scope Summary DLR Group's energy services team worked with the district’s maintenance and engineering staff to assess equipment operations, analyze usage, identify potential system improvements and associated cost impacts. DLR Group provided retro-commissioning services.
Design Achievement Hillcrest High School District was interested in lowering operational costs at its High School. DLR Group obtained funding through the Smart Energy Design Assistance Center (SEDAC) program to conduct retro-commissioning services of the campus, identifying a series of improvements impacting electrical and natural gas utilization with a simple payback period of 1.5 years or less. With a final retro-commissioning report in hand, the district can decide which of these improvements they wish to pursue. Scope Summary DLR Group's energy services team worked with the district’s maintenance and engineering staff to assess equipment operations, analyze usage, identify potential system improvements and associated cost impacts. DLR Group provided retro-commissioning services.
Design Achievement - The Will County Public Safety Complex is designed to provide a home for the Will County Sheriff’s department. The sheriff outgrew their original facility, built in 1973, and because of the growth of the county, the sheriff’s staff was forced to relocate to six different facilities throughout the city of Joliet, Ill. This project is the first implementation piece of the master plan that DLR Group completed in 2012 for the Laraway Campus, the location of the original sheriff’s building.  It is important to Will County that all staff is in one location to improve communication throughout and build morale. DLR Group’s design for the Will County Public Safety Complex provides a contemporary aesthetic that reflects the county’s growth toward new limits. At the very start of this project, Will County was focused more on a value-priced building but after many efforts, it was imperative that the county required a more robust, civic and secure design. The design of the building also impacts the community’s consolidated customer service experience by providing a higher level of privacy for the building’s users. The county took on a leadership role in developing a public-safety answering point (PSAP). Conclusively, the consolidated 911 center became a part of the PSAP. This project entailed unique security concerns. The sheriff’s requested a higher level of security from ETSC, which included a separate entrance and isolation, from their portion of the building. The biggest challenge was keeping up with the rapid design schedule while continuing to add program elements, such as the ETSB and 911 centers that were added after the design for the facility was complete. Scope Summary - The new Will County Public Safety Complex occupies 87,000 total SF of program space. The sheriff’s portion of the building occupies 67,000 SF, the 911 center occupies 15,000 SF and the ETSB portion occupies 5,000 SF. The building was designed to accommodate 474 sworn and 128 civilian men and women of the Will County Public Safety Complex. The facility includes shared training rooms, used by the staff and public, lock up/holding areas, large evidence storage and specialty offices for investigators, patrol officers and administration. DLR Group provided architecture, engineering, programming/planning and interior services.
DLR Group's role in this master plan is to generate and analyze information, share ideas, develop options, and offer guidance in decision making. We believe that it is our responsibility to challenge you to think differently about Barrington 220's facilities and how they can help become assets to continued excellence in academics and operations. Engaged collaboration is critical in creating a reciprocally beneficial EFMP for the communities served by Barrington 220. Diverse voices giving input and collectively discovering opportunity, in our experience, ensures that plans are empathetic, meaningful, and specific.
Design Achievement - Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s vision of focusing on skills that graduates need in the modern workforce and Information Technology industry is the driving force behind the major renovation of the Chicago Vocational Career Academy (CVCA). Partnering with local technology companies to develop a unique curriculum at each of five Early College STEM schools, including a newly launched grades 9-14 option, students are able to focus on technology skills and career readiness while earning college credit. This shift in focus required extensive reorganization of the building to increase building utilization and efficiency, and provide suitable modernized learning spaces for the variety of existing and new programs offered. DLR Group’s design team responded to the challenge with major renewals touching all facets of the school’s Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) program and its six Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. Built during WWII to train workers for the war effort, the site has a rich legacy of preparing students to enter the workforce. The expanded and retooled programs allow students to experience the breadth and depth of workforce development with real hands-on opportunities and specialized technology education specific to the needs of today’s employers. An agreement with the Chicago City Colleges system will allow students to graduate from CVCA with an Associate of Science degree in Computer Science or an Associate in Applied Science in Information Technology. Scope Summary - DLR Group was engaged by the Public Building Commission of Chicago to lead the design team in an extensive redevelopment of the existing Chicago Vocational Career Academy. The 850,000 SF campus sited on a 26-acre site is the city’s second largest public school. Renovation work was implemented over three construction phases to minimize shifting students, and included the abatement and demolition of the Anthony Wing (150,000 SF), interior renovations of the existing 1940s facility, MEP upgrades throughout the campus including the central plant, sensitive historic exterior repairs of the building’s Art Deco façade, roof replacements, landscaping, right-of-way improvements, and site development with restoration work. Virtually every area of the school was upgraded to support small- and large-group learning in a technology-focused environment. Major program renovations touched all programs: the automotive program was repurposed to feature new Navistar Engine labs; the very popular Culinary Arts and Cosmetology programs were upgraded and expanded to reduce the number of wait-listed students; STEM labs were repurposed to include programming, networking, and gaming applications; all Tier 1 and Tier 2 science labs were updated and supplemented by new Tier 3 science labs. DLR Group provided design team leadership, architectural and coordinating mechanical engineering services.
The Burbank Park District constructed a new Recreation Center at Stevenson Park, and required a firm to perform Commissioning services. DLR Group was engaged as Commissionng Authority, providing guidance and assistance for the LEED Fundamental Commissionng Prerequisite.
Extension of work for approximately four weeks while continuation of EFMP takes place.
LEED fundamental and enhanced commissioning services associated with the pursuit of LEED Gold Commercial Interiors certification at HSBC’s office. Functional performance testing of all energy using HVAC, plumbing and lighting equipment were conducted. Equipment functional performance testing demonstrated that the installation and operation of components, systems, and system-to-system interfacing relationships were in accordance with approved plans and specifications such that operation, function, and maintenance serviceability for each of the commissioned systems was confirmed.
Design Achievement McClean County Unified School District was interested in lowering operational costs at its Chiddix and Pepper Ridge Elementary Schools. DLR Group obtained funding through the Smart Energy Design Assistance Center (SEDAC) program to conduct retro-commissioning services of the campus, identifying a series of improvements impacting electrical and natural gas utilization with a simple payback period of 1.5 years or less. With a final retro-commissioning report in hand, the district can decide which of these improvements they wish to pursue. Scope Summary DLR Group's energy services team worked with the district’s maintenance and engineering staff to assess equipment operations, analyze usage, identify potential system improvements and associated cost impacts. DLR Group provided retro-commissioning services.

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