Accessibility
Interior rendering of a kindergarten classroom at Pope John XXIII Catholic School in Evanston.
The existing classrooms were reorganized to maximize use of space, and new lighting and finishes were added.  Interactive smart boards, advanced data wiring, storage, and personal cubbies for the children were added or improved.

Interior rendering of a kindergarten classroom at Pope John XXIII Catholic School in Evanston.

The existing classrooms were reorganized to maximize use of space, and new lighting and finishes were added.  Interactive smart boards, advanced data wiring, storage, and personal cubbies for the children were added or improved.

A reading loft, with peek-a-boo windows, was added along the window wall of the kindergarten.

A reading loft, with peek-a-boo windows, was added along the window wall of the kindergarten.

Teaching centers with adequate storage were added around the perimeter of the group area for each kindergarten room.  Primary colors added visual interest to the project centers.

Teaching centers with adequate storage were added around the perimeter of the group area for each kindergarten room.  Primary colors added visual interest to the project centers.

Design image of Community Partners for the Common Good’s (CPCG) study for a new Community Center in Humboldt Park, Chicago.
The new Center was planned to replace an existing condemned neighborhood church with a facility that would serve the spiritual needs of this community, and provide education, health, and social services.

Design image of Community Partners for the Common Good’s (CPCG) study for a new Community Center in Humboldt Park, Chicago.

The new Center was planned to replace an existing condemned neighborhood church with a facility that would serve the spiritual needs of this community, and provide education, health, and social services.

Interior view the Community Center lobby and reception desk.  The natural materials of concrete and wood help create a warm and textural environment.

Interior view the Community Center lobby and reception desk.  The natural materials of concrete and wood help create a warm and textural environment.

Nighttime image of the Community Center used to study the evening street scape, exterior lighting, and reflective characteristics of the metal wall panels.

Nighttime image of the Community Center used to study the evening street scape, exterior lighting, and reflective characteristics of the metal wall panels.

A massing model of the Community Center and surrounding neighborhood, made of wood, particle board, paper, and acrylic.

The building is fully accessible from the street.  The ground floor includes a lobby/reception area with adjacent conference and meeting rooms.  A large assembly space, located on the second floor, provides for multiple uses including worship, sports, and community gathering.

A close family friend of the owner inspired the design for an older home that embraces modern needs while maintaining it’s original character and charm.
The owner was hopeful that this project would provide unimpeded access for Chaz,  a friend of many years and paraplegic.  With the kitchen, study/bedroom, and rear yard being remodeled, the opportunity to design for accessibility was easily incorporated.

A close family friend of the owner inspired the design for an older home that embraces modern needs while maintaining it’s original character and charm.

The owner was hopeful that this project would provide unimpeded access for Chaz,  a friend of many years and paraplegic.  With the kitchen, study/bedroom, and rear yard being remodeled, the opportunity to design for accessibility was easily incorporated.

Highlights included a ramp in the backyard that wraps a seating area and screens the adjacent neighbor’s yard.  New paving at grade expands the usable outdoor space.

Highlights included a ramp in the backyard that wraps a seating area and screens the adjacent neighbor’s yard.  New paving at grade expands the usable outdoor space.

The owner’s passion is cooking, so a kitchen that would embrace this passion was a critical piece of the puzzle.  A moderate addition to the existing kitchen allowed for an island, lots of cabinets, and ample circulation solved the problem.

The tile accent above the range was purchased by the owner on a trip to south america, and set the tone for the surrounding cabinets and finishes.  Bon appetit!

About

Parallel is an architectural planning and design firm providing services to religious, commercial and residential clients. Read More...