Don and Betty Tucker Hall and Betty Parke Tucker Center for Neurodiversity

Aurora, Illinois

Client

Aurora University

Area

35,109 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$16,500,000

Completion Date

07/2022

Design team
Kelly Schomer, Nathaniel Cox, Bruce Cairns, Ana Serrano, Becky Marlow, Kinga Leja

The Betty Parke Tucker Center for Neurodiversity is a five-story student residence hall designed to support students on the autism spectrum with careful consideration of their unique needs and sensitivities. The center provides individual sensory retreat spaces where students can relax and recharge, incorporating elements like soft lighting, soundproofing, and comfortable seating. It minimizes sensory overload by using calming muted colors, non-glare surfaces, and natural materials that promote a calming atmosphere. Designated quiet zones reduce auditory distractions and offer a peaceful environment for studying or unwinding. All residence hall rooms offer adjustable lighting and temperature control within each room to provide a personalized living environment.

Communal areas provide a range of seating options to accommodate different preferences for personal space and social interaction. Smaller, quiet social spaces enable students to engage in more intimate conversations or participate in shared activities with peers. Dedicated spaces for support services, such as counseling or therapy rooms, ensure confidentiality and accessibility. A sensory-friendly landscaped plaza outdoors provides opportunities for relaxation and socialization in a natural setting.

Additional Information

Associated Firm

The Boldt Company; CEMCON; Martin Petersen Company; Connelly Electric; W.E. Mundy Landscaping

Capacity

117

Cost per Sq Ft

$470.00

Featured in

2023 Architectural Portfolio

Interior category

Residence Halls/Lounges

Product suppliers specified

Flooring by J&J Commercial Carpet
Carpet by J&J Commercial Carpet
Brick/Masonry by Summit
Ceilings by CertainTeed
Doors by LaForce, Inc.
Elevators by Schindler Elevator
Paint/Wallcoverings by Sherwin-Williams
Paint/Wallcoverings by Benjamin Moore
Plumbing by North American Pipe Corp.
Roofing by Firestone Building Products
Roofing by RoofScreen Mfg.
Windows by Oldcastle Architectural
Lighting & Accessories by Acuity Brands Controls
Fire/Life-Safety Systems by Notifier
Fire/Life-Safety Systems by Honeywell
Security Systems by LaForce, Inc.
Locks by Schlage
Drinking Fountains by Elkay
Washroom Accessories by American Specialties
Washroom Fixtures by Kohler
Washroom Fixtures by Chicago Faucets
HVAC Control Devices by Johnson Controls
HVAC Units by Trane
Roofing by Pac-Clad
Fire/Life-Safety Systems by Alucobond
Brick/Masonry by Mid-States Concrete Industries
Paving by Unilock
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