Austin Campus High School
Project details
- Architect: SWWB Architects LTD
- Owner: Chicago Board of Education
- Value of Project: $19,000,000
- Scope: Extensive interior and exterior renovations, upgrades and improvements
- Time Frame: 18 months
This project was large and multi-faceted, involving extensive exterior masonry restoration/rebuild to the complete building façade, new site development including new sports fields and landscaping, an underground storm water retention system, a new roofing and custom lighting package, new parking lots and lighting, complete new windows and exterior entrance doors, and many interior finishes. Given its scope, Tyler Lane Construction had many challenges to overcome, from working with the extremely deteriorated exterior masonry, steel and window systems to the removal/replacement of the entire building roofing system — all while working in a fully occupied school. The exterior brick veneer system was completely ground and pointed, including restoration of all the existing terra cotta. Most of the building piers and parapets were removed and rebuilt, keeping with the original design of the building. During the rebuilding process, all of the existing windows were removed and replaced while old, abandoned window openings were brought back to life, returning the building to its original 1920s design. The new site work and landscaping are sure to improve the environment of this new charter school for the Chicago Public Schools and change the outlook of the community.