SENIOR CENTER

Evergreen Park, IL

The Village of Evergreen Park purchased a 70-year old Church, which was vacated by the previous congregation. This building has become a landmark in this residential community and the Village wanted to convert this Church into a facility for the community's senior residents. The building was in need of much repair, was not accessible (entry/toilets), with a heating system only. The Village requested that the character of the original Church, exterior and interior, be maintained as much as possible

The main parking area was on the east, so a new accessible entry was provided. Because the building had four (4) levels, split from the entry grade, stairs, ramp, and interior elevator were provided. This entry was to be covered from weather to provide a waiting/pickup area for any disabled users. The elevator had to be within the existing building for access to the main levels. Upgrades included accessible toilets on the two (2) main levels for the meeting rooms, a zoned HVAC system routed through the roof trusses, an expanded stage area with ramp, new interior finishes, library, archive museum, and office areas for Senior staff. Major features were to maintain existing stain glass windows, refinishing existing wood trim, doors, and floor, and using the original organ bellows as part of the main meeting room décor.