Masonry Performance Front And Center At Elgin Academy

From National Concrete Masonry Association The Harold D. Rider Family Media, Science, and Fine Arts Center of Elgin Academy in Elgin, Ill., was constructed

From National Concrete Masonry Association ÷ The Harold D. Rider Family Media, Science, and Fine Arts Center of Elgin Academy in Elgin, Ill., was constructed with the aim of creating a high-performance building to serve both students and the larger community. The masonry structure achieved a LEED [Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design] Gold rating, earning high marks for daylighting, air quality, use of local materials, noise attenuation, plus energy and resource efficiency.

The Center will house classes offering students a living laboratory to explore material science, including thermal mass and related energy dynamics, as well as ecological and site-specific benefits of sustainable building. Among properties recommending masonry as the building’s structural material was an exterior-wall R-value of 21.53, which garnered LEED rating points in energy performance when coupled with a high-efficiency HVAC system. The material also is well suited to a structure requiring superior sound attenuation to accommodate classrooms, music rehearsal areas, media production facilities, public space, and a theatre under one roof. A PCI/Spec Mix product comprising the core fill contains recycled content and further contributes to noise attenuation and insulation values. Moreover, an inert mold- and mildew-resistant surface that doesn’t release volatile chemicals ensures indoor air quality and moisture management.

Additionally, masonry enabled optimal use of the tight, sloped project site, as it facilitated terracing and modular construction, plus building into the slope to allow earth insulation of a large portion of the lower floors. Masonry’s local availability was enhanced by the fact that many on the building team had ties to Elgin Academy: alumni and students’ parents populated the project team from design and construction principals to material suppliers.

PROJECT PRINCIPALS

Architect Û DLA Architects Ltd., Elgin, Ill.

Construction Manager Û Pepper Construction, Chicago,

Structural Engineer Û Pease/Borst & Associates, Elgin

Mason Contractor Û G. Porter & Co, St. Charles, Ill.

Masonry Materials Û Dow, Illinois Products/Therma Drain, Lance Construction Supplies, Northfield Block, PCI/SpecMix