Ancient philosophers theorized four elements comprised the universe: earth, air, water and fire. The latter two of these figure prominently in the design of the Niles North High School Aquatics Center in Skokie, Il., a suburb of Chicago.
On behalf of its client, the Niles Township High School District 219, Legat Architects (Chicago) designed an “expansion and renovation of the aquatics center to improve competitive and educational swimming programs, promote community participation and enhance safety.”
Designed to meet LEED for Schools Gold environmental criteria, a key aspect of the project was a 24,600-sf addition to the school’s existing pool complex. The addition’s defining visual features include a dramatically curving roof with clerestory over the new pool, and a glazed curtain wall rising up to match the roof’s curve. The light-filled space creates the ambiance of an outdoor pool for student athletes and spectators.
While the water element is clear in the swimming pools, the fire element factors in with the use of fire-rated glazing systems from Technical Glass Products (TGP).
“We needed to provide a two-hour fire-rated separation between the existing building and the new addition, but we wanted the facility to read as a single aquatics center,” explained Michael Maloney, LEED AP BD+C, design director for Legat Architects. “A visual connection between pools was crucial for the concept, as well as for safety and security. The Fireframes® Curtainwall Series frames and Pilkington Pyrostop® glass from TGP allowed us to meet the fire requirements, while maintaining the visual connection between the existing and new parts of the building.”
TGP’s Fireframes® Curtainwall Series frames
Fireframes Curtainwall Series frames are available with fire-ratings up to 120 minutes, and feature narrow profiles to reduce sightlines. The UL classified and labeled steel frames enable large, multi-story expanses of glass in interior and exterior applications. Also available with up to 120 minute fire ratings, Pilkington Pyrostop glazing is impact safety rated and blocks the transfer of radiant heat.
For more information on the Fireframes Curtainwall System and Pilkington Pyrostop, along with TGP’s other fire-rated glass and framing, visit www.fireglass.com.
Technical Glass Products
800.426.0279
800.451.9857 – fax
sales@fireglass.com
www.fireglass.com
Related Stories
Performing Arts Centers | Sep 11, 2017
19th century smokestack highlights a Massachusetts performing arts facility
CBT Architects and Windover Construction collaborated on the adaptive reuse project for Middlesex School.
K-12 Schools | Sep 8, 2017
The economic case for engaged classrooms in K-12 schools
Flexible, modern classrooms should be viewed as a key element of a sound financial strategy, producing a solid return-on-investment.
K-12 Schools | Aug 31, 2017
Environmental studies building highlights sustainability in every design element
The LEED Platinum and Zero Net Energy Verified building minimizes energy use via its site orientation.
K-12 Schools | Aug 18, 2017
How to create healthy learning environments with active design
Active design can be incorporated into any facility or campus with a few simple steps.
K-12 Schools | Aug 9, 2017
A school in Denmark is clad in 12,000 solar panels
C.F. Møller designed the building to create a connection between the school premises and the surrounding public urban space.
K-12 Schools | Aug 1, 2017
This new high school is the first to be built on a tech company’s campus
Design Tech High School, located on Oracle Corporation’s Headquarters campus, will span 64,000 sf across two stories and have a capacity of 550 students.
Education Facilities | Jul 14, 2017
Youth education center in Baltimore gets first students
Students learn environmental skills, natural resource management, urban agriculture, and water quality monitoring.
Great Solutions | Jul 12, 2017
The writing on the wall: Maker spaces encourage students to take an active role
Maker spaces, dry-erase walls, and flexible furniture highlight Kinkaid’s new Learning Center.
Building Team Awards | Jun 7, 2017
Rebuilding to heal: Sandy Hook Elementary School
Gold Award: Community involvement was paramount as Newtown, Conn., replaced the school where a mass shooting occurred.
K-12 Schools | Jun 5, 2017
PK-8 school will be Denver’s first CHPS-certified building
A “learning stair” will connect the cafeteria to the main level.
