Argo Community High School, Richard and Sharon Portillo Performing Arts Center

Summit, Illinois

Firm

DLA Architects, Ltd.

Client

Argo Community School District 217

Area

37,383 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$16,161,000

Completion Date

07/2017

Associated Firms: Threshold Acoustics LLC (Acoustics, A/V), Pease/Borst Assoc. (Structural), Berg & Assoc. (MEP and Fire Protection), W-T Civil Engineering (Civil)

Design team: Carrie Matlock, AIA, LEED® AP BD+C (President); Louis F. Noto, Jr., AIA, LEED® AP BD+C (Partner-in-Charge); Tracy Biederstadt, Licensed Architect, LEED® AP BD+C (Project Architect); Matthew R. Lowe, LEED® AP BD+C (Director of Design)

For years, Argo High School’s Performing Arts Department contorted itself to fit a modern curriculum into an antiquated space. Multiple options for renovation were considered, but the multistory building is almost a century old. Simply addressing life safety and accessibility issues consumed much of the budget. Creating a massive addition on the crowded and landlocked urban site seemed impossible.
The innovative solution avoided disrupting the main bus queuing area and access to the auto shop classroom. The design connected the addition with a bridge. Vehicle circulation around the site remained unchanged, and buses pass underneath. Students have a secure, indoor route to the rest of the building.
The addition made it possible to meet educational program goals and stay within budget. Large windows throughout provide plenty of natural light. Views from the common spaces into classrooms and practice rooms place learning on display. Students have an array of breakout spaces in which to collaborate.
The 450-seat auditorium is intimate. The acoustics provide a superior experience for both performers and spectators.