TKB recently completed the fourth phase of a four-phase, year-long construction project at The Joint Commission in Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois.
The Joint Commission has evolved over the years into a collaborative partner with its member institutions to pioneer and implement safety procedures and standardize accreditation. Any remodeling effort had to support this evolution and the cross disciplinary manner in which the organization now works. TKB became a partner to the staff as design decisions were evaluated and chosen. An extensive change management initiative heightened understanding and anticipation of the forthcoming redesign.
Special emphasis was placed on clarity of circulation. Stepping off of the elevators on any floor, all activity on the floor starts at the “elbow” where the wings of the building meet and an informal pantry joins large conference spaces for both informal and structured collaboration. From the elbow, broad main street circulation extends along each wing of the building, flanked by enclosed meeting, training and project rooms, and opens to the large, daylight-filled staff work areas. By grouping large collaborative spaces together near the elbow, reinforcing circulation and providing alternate venues for focused work at the ends of the building, the remodeling addresses both collaborative and individual work.
Infrastructure upgrades include a more resilient network, necessary for mobility, and new LED lighting throughout which has reduced power consumption from over three watts per square foot to 0.5 watts, with anticipated savings in excess of $65,000 annually plus a corresponding reduction in cooling costs. Existing fan power and VAV terminal boxes are replaced with smaller, more efficient and quieter units, increasing local control and addressing acoustical issues. Life safety systems and building automation systems were also completely updated.
Of particular interest is the redesign of the boardroom accommodating 42 board members surrounded by gallery seating. The room was planned to enhance visibility between board members and maximize visual and audio acuity for presentations, internal dialogue, and remote participation and, consistent with the planning throughout, emphasized transparency and natural light.
At the June 7 Harper College Educational Foundation Board meeting, Martha Bell retired from the Harper College Educational Foundation Board of Directors and was honored for her 25 years of service to the College.
