Project: Lake Forest Country Day School

Year: 2015-2017
Type: Addition and Interior Renovation
Area: 14,000 s.f.
Value: $6,000,000 total
Description: Gymnasium renovation and Performing Arts Center addition to a K-8 private school.

Lake Forest Country Day School, on the north shore of Chicago, has been in Lake Forest for 130 years.  The Lake Forest Country Day School Performing Arts Center (PAC) and the gymnasium bookend each side of the campus facility which was built in the 1940’s.  The PAC renovation features the exposure of the existing cast iron roof structure above the new egg-shaped ceiling that utilizes a perforated metal/wood lay-in tile.  The stained wood stage is flanked by free standing drywall partitions and establishes a strong focus on the large new window that provides natural light and a view to the tree-lined street outside.

The Gymnasium also features a large new window opening which offers warm natural light and views for the school assemblies and community functions.  Replacement of the floor/wall/ceiling interior finishes and the incorporation of a moveable telescopic seating unit, allows the room to be user-friendly and convertible for the large assembly functions.  A large graphic fabric banister displays the school’s values and provides improved acoustical performance for the new audio, video and lighting systems.