Levy Senior and Community Center

Evanston, IL, USA

Photo © Steve Hall

Drawing © Ross Barney Architects

Photo © Steve Hall

Architects: Ross Barney Architects

Location: Evanston, IL, USA
Year: 2002

The new senior and community center for a mature Chicago suburb, is located on a reclaimed recycling site in a 27 acre park. The design approach seeks to visually and spiritually minimize the loss of the City’s finite green space, by creating a see through, pavilion-like building using materials that recall historical park structures.

The 25,500 square foot, $6 million center has three components: the glass enclosed classroom wing shielded by a 13’ high wood louvered screen providing and allowing views through and into the park; the multipurpose gymnasium/theater constructed of light transmitting, fiberglass panels and offices and support spaces clad in brick and aluminum.

These three components create a courtyard containing an enabling garden. This outdoor “classroom” provides additional space for various activities, including yoga, painting, gardening and tai chi.

Natural materials were selected for durability, accessibility and sustainability. A slate border around the courtyard arcade provides a tactile warning and high contrast definition for users who are visually impaired. The wood louvers are built from sassafras, a weather resistant sustainable harvested species that allows daylight while protecting the occupants from the glare and heat of direct sun radiation.

Two site specific outdoor pieces by sculptor Fred Nagelbach were installed as part of Evanston’s Art in Architecture program.