Tilton, Kelly + Bell is currently designing a renovation and restoration for the historic Illinois State Armory building, working for the Illinois Capitol Development Board and Central Management Services.  The Armory is a 1930’s WPA building in Springfield, Illinois, prominently facing the Illinois State Capitol building.  Planning is being coordinated with the Capital Complex Master Plan, concurrently under development.   The State Historical Preservation Office is reviewing preservation efforts.

The project work includes a new roof, new skylights, a restored limestone façade, interior and exterior accessibility modifications, and a new circulation pattern and core location.  Comprehensive code and condition updates are required to the architecture and MEP systems throughout, with the goal of providing flexible, functional, and aesthetically pleasing office space to meet current and future needs.

Vacant for approximately ten years, the Armory presents a deteriorated condition, with considerable water damage from the roof affecting both the interior and the façade and outdated systems and condition throughout. The multi-story drill hall, a historic feature of the building, will be partially restored to preserve a dramatic core for the building’s planned 800 state workers.  The remainder of the drill hall will be incorporated into office space connecting two independent office stacks, increasing office space from 90,000 square feet to 96,000 square feet.  The modifications will increase efficiency per state guidelines and provide much-needed office space in the Capitol complex.