Project: Orland Park Campus
Client: St. Xavier University
Location: Orland Park, IL
Case Study: St. Xavier University
Challenge: When St. Xavier University set out to build a single-story facility that would serve as an Orland Park Campus, their primary challenge was determining how to make it happen on a site that included 4 ½ acres of wetlands.
Solution: In investigating the prospect of developing this 32,000 square foot facility and its accompanying 315 space parking area, we knew that disrupting the site’s wetlands was not an option. However, in taking advantage of a natural peninsula-shaped section of land on the west side of the wetlands, a radial floor plan began to emerge. This type of building shape would allow the building to nestle into the tall, mature vegetation.
This three-leg radial plan now allows the University to showcase all of its services and amenities from one central location. Once inside the facility’s large day-lit atrium, you can see their state-of-the-art Computer Classrooms, Cyber Cafe, Library/Technology Center, Presentation Classroom, and Conference Room. Looking to the right, you can see their classroom wing, which is comprised of thee computer labs, a science classroom and eleven standard classrooms of various sizes. To the left, you see the entrance to their administrative wing, which includes a staff lounge, work room, and administrative offices. Their entry atrium truly has become a hub of activity.
The facility’s face brick exterior exudes permanence and includes a continuous parapet to conceal rooftop equipment. The freestanding archway highlights the entry point and creates an outdoor gathering space. On a site that was once considered a difficult challenge sits a beautiful facility that has been described as successfully conveying “the image of a place designed for adult students…”
