Rich THSD 227 Additions & Renovations
STR Partners LLC · Olympia Fields, IL
Overview
One high school, two campuses: This is the vision behind approximately 85,000 sf of additions and 117,000 sf of renovations at this south Cook County school district. A new mascot, new school colors, and a unified district spirit define the vision for this expansion and renovation project. Features include a new field house addition, state-of-the- art STEM and science classrooms, stadium improvements, a new ticket booth/concessions stand with promenade, and a new main entry.
Originally comprising three, separate high schools, this south Cook County district decided to consolidate its student population into one high school with two campuses (herein referred to as Campus No. 1 and Campus No. 2). "It was a complete rebranding of their district," the architect said. "The project began with the creation of a new mascot, school colors, and overall identity." The district decided to close one of the school buildings, and through a series of additions and renovations, revamp the remaining two buildings. "The challenge was working within the existing buildings, which had small classrooms and cramped hallways, while creating continuity between both campuses so it felt like one high school," the architect said. The 85,000 sf of additions and approximately 117,000 sf of renovations, which totaled $88.6 million, took place over several phases. The first phase included the renovation of the existing stadium and culinary arts classrooms at Campus No. 1. In following phases, Campus No. 1 received a major expansion and renovations, including a field house addition, band and orchestra rooms, and science classroom renovations. And at Campus No. 2, renovations included a new, state-of-the art engineering, robotics, and manufacturing wing; a cafeteria; and science classrooms. "Amazon awarded the district a portion of a $1 million grant to develop STEM programs," the architect said, "so this helped us achieve the district's vision."
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