Columbia College Chicago, Illinois
SAS worked with Columbia College from 1975 through 2010, helping Columbia grow from 350 students to over 10,000. We assisted in evaluating potential buildings within the South Loop for acquisition and then designed the buildings for adaptive reuse into collegiate spaces. Many of these existing buildings were landmark, turn of the century buildings. Providing contemporary college spaces within the constraints of these existing buildings, while respecting the historic nature of the building, was always a challenge.
Some of the unique spaces designed within these unusual constraints were: theaters, TV studios, film studios, art studios, photo and art museums, radio and recording studios, dormitories, and conventional classrooms and faculty offices. SAS was also responsible for the design and upkeep of these 1890 buildings in terms of roof, elevator, window, exterior facade and MEP systems.
SAS Architects are proud of our 20 year relationship with Columbia College and our ability to work within the constraints of budget, summer construction schedules and adaption of existing buildings.