The Chicago City Council has given a green light to a remarkable new project that's set to transform the face of the city's South Shore. The Epic Academy, a school known for its commitment to innovation and student success, will soon have a home that mirrors its ethos.
Located at 8231 S. South Shore, the new school will breathe new life into the former St. Michael’s school building and usher in a series of exciting changes to the local landscape. This project is a testament to the possibilities of adaptive reuse in commercial construction, and its strategic design holds great lessons for the industry.
Led by JGMA architects, the design process for the Epic Academy School is rooted in a deep respect for history, utilizing the past as a catalyst for forward-thinking design. This philosophy manifests in the retention of the original school building, balanced with a transformative four-story addition on the north side. This new addition is more than just an expansion – it's a bridge between the school and the community.
Urbanize Chicago reports that the classrooms remain largely within the original structure, preserving the soul of the building. The new addition, however, houses spaces aimed at fostering community connections, emphasizing the school's role as a community hub. One of the most striking features of the design is the gymnasium, which has been elevated to the top of the building. This bold move not only maximizes the stunning views but also symbolizes the school’s commitment to elevating the community.
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From the outside, the addition stands out with its terracotta rainscreen system. This design choice adds a vertical rhythm to the façade that pays homage to the existing structure. Perhaps the most striking architectural feature is the new entrance, which is inset at an angle. This unique design creates a dynamic entry space, signaling a new era for the school.
The Epic Academy School project doesn't just hold lessons in innovative design, but also in sustainable construction practices. The building is projected to meet or exceed LEED Silver certification. The sustainability strategy encompasses a wide array of initiatives including:
- Exceeding energy code standards
- Installing rooftop solar panels
- Going beyond stormwater regulations
- Reducing indoor water usage
The school will also encourage alternative transportation by providing bike parking, and it will contribute to the local ecosystem with tree planting and green roofs. Additionally, the project includes a commitment to bird protection measures, a feature that is becoming increasingly prevalent in urban construction projects.
Currently in the design development phase, the project is moving forward with urgency to address significant water infiltration issues in the existing structure. Roofers are being brought in to stabilize the building, demonstrating the critical importance of swift action in commercial construction projects.
There's an air of anticipation as the Epic Academy looks forward to moving into the new facility by 2024 or 2025. While fundraising is ongoing, the project's approval by the City Council marks a significant milestone in its journey. As the Epic Academy School project unfolds, it serves as an inspiring example of how commercial construction can bridge past and future, foster community connections, and uphold sustainability, all while creating spaces that inspire and empower their inhabitants.
