Lyons Township High School, South Campus Expansion

Western Springs, Illinois

Firm

DLA Architects, Ltd.

Client

Lyons Township High School District 204

Area

84,000 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$15,880,922

Completion Date

08/2006

Academic, speech, lecture, performing arts and community uses were program considerations for this 351-seat performing-arts center remodeling.
The fieldhouse addition provides for multiple functions, including track and field, soccer, badminton, volleyball, baseball, football and physical-education programs.
The natatorium addition boasts a double-length, six-lane pool that maximizes program use for student and community members of all swimming abilities.
The two-story natatorium entrance was made handicapped-accessible by using an existing, adjacent elevator and linking it to the spectator balcony by multiple ramps suspended above the entrance lobby. Special-needs students and elderly community members enter the walk-in pool without major assistance.
In the summer, the dehumidification system operates like a heat pump, dehumidifying the pool area and heating the water. Alternatively, it dehumidifies with outside air and heats the pool with natural gas.
An auxiliary surge recovery (gutter) system provides constant pool water volume, minimizing wave levels and maximizing swimmers’ speeds.
The existing multipurpose room had fixed-lecture seating and a small stage. Removal of concrete tiered seating and 180-degree rotation of the room’s orientation provides improved functionality and access to the stage and support spaces.
Performing-arts lighting and sound are accessed easily from a tension grid above the theater and monitored from a state-of-the-art control desk.