This 30,000-sq-ft facility opts for a clean, simple aesthetic in keeping with Local 17's desire that spaces be welcoming and user-friendly. The union and its 1,200 members were relocating from a building they had occupied for more than 40 years.

In addition to upgrading the facility with new telecommunication and AV systems, the project's design-build team selected fabrics, colors, lighting and carpeting that maintain the tradition of the union, which was founded in the early 20th century.

Project team members additionally salvaged and reused as many existing materials as possible in order to maintain the budget.

For the same reason, the contractor thoroughly investigated existing conditions—including spaces located behind walls and below grade—prior to the start of design, thereby avoiding costly surprises once work began in the field.

From there, team members moved quickly through schematics and design development, completing the project in just eight months.

The finished facility colocates several spaces under one roof, including union offices, a member union hall, a health and welfare department and an apprenticeship center that includes spaces for classroom activities and hands-on training.

Each year, the union trains 80 apprentices.

Local 17—International Association of Heat & Frost Insulators, Tinley Park, Ill. Key Players

Developer/Owner: International Association of Heat & Frost Insulators, Tinley Park, Ill.

General Contractor: Englewood Construction Inc., Lemont, Ill.

Designer: BVM Assoc., Lemont, Ill.

Structural Engineer: John V. Vivoda, Chicago

Submitted by: Englewood Construction Inc.