Kankakee High School Addition and Remodeling Project

Kankakee, Illinois

Firm

DLA Architects, Ltd.

Client

Kankakee School District 111

Area

94,483 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$21,220,000

Completion Date

03/2019

DLA Architects, Ltd./Alexander Romanovsky

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Renovations at Kankakee High School were not entered lightly. More than a year of planning and exploration, involving the architecture project team, administrators, teachers, students, and community members, shaped the program and design. This phase began dramatic improvements that will result in a “virtually new” building.

To better align with the newly adopted Reggio-inspired approach to teaching and learning, the traditional classrooms are reimagined. The resulting design creates an array of common learning spaces that radiate from learning hubs. Educators are provided the flexibility to be responsive to the needs and interests of the students and community. The educators can create experiences that enable learning to happen on a deeper level.

The band and orchestra students no longer commute to a remote location. Remodeled spaces have created a new band room and updated choir room. The auditorium has a reshaped stage, plus ancillary spaces such as a prop workshop.

The cafeteria is now a commons area and the school’s main corridor. The expanded culinary arts program with commercial kitchen is a lab that educates students on the restaurant industry.

Additional Information

Associated Firm

Berg Engineering Consultants Ltd., Pease Borst & Associates LLC, WT Group, S2O Consultants Inc., Grand Stage Company, Hamilton AV Design, Soundscape Engineering LCC