Channel 25 News interviewed our CEO, Ben McMillan, to discuss his background and the legacy of IDG+ Architects. He also talks about the impact of working with non-profits and mentoring young people of the communities of Peoria and Central Illinois as a whole.
We are focused on getting elementary school students involved in architecture at an early age. By expanding their career aspirations, we try to instill the feeling that being an architect is not impossible, that if you apply yourself then the sky is the limit."
~ Ben McMillan IIIThank you 25News WEEK for a great interview.
Building Award Winning
Communities Since 2001
Offices
440 Benmar Drive, Suite 3335
Houston Texas 77060
1341 West Mockingbird Lane, Suite 600W
Dallas, Texas 75247
4507 Sterling Avenue, Suite 306
Peoria, Illinois 61615
IDG+ Architects was proud to be selected to design a renovation and addition to William B. Travis Academy for the Dallas Independent School District. This project showcases IDG+'s expertise and commitment to excellence. IDG+ provided comprehensive services to DISD, including programming, schematic design, construction documents, bid negotiations, and construction administration. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, we were able to deliver results for our client.
As part of the Dallas Independent School District's 2015 Bond, this esteemed institution underwent a three-story addition. The addition includes state-of-the-art performing arts rooms, visual arts classrooms, restrooms, a library, a media center, and additional classrooms. In total, 61,000 square feet were renovated and a 30,000 square foot addition was constructed.
The focus of William B. Travis Academy is on academically talented and gifted students, and with the new facilities, the academy is better equipped to educate both today's scholars and tomorrow's leaders.
"Our commitment lies not only in the bricks and mortar but in weaving together the very fabric of a greener tomorrow.
As architects, we believe that education and sustainability are intrinsically intertwined -- engaging young minds in their immediate environment while nurturing the planet.
By integrating renewable energy systems, maximizing natural light, and using low impact materials, we empower learners to embrace sustainability as a way of life."
50% of the materials used in the renovation and addition were recycled.
Local materials were sourced to reduce an energy-intensive shipping process.
All paints, sealants and adhesives used throughout the building contain low amounts of volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
MERV-13 filters were installed in the facility to filter out dust, pollen and other particles to improve the indoor air quality.
The dedicated Outdoor Air System cycles fresh air throughout the space at a higher rate.
Interior and exterior LED lighting reduces energy consumption as well as the heat generated in the building. This intervention lowers the operating costs to cool the building.Environmentally preferable refrigerants are used to cool the building to reduce the facilities impact on the environment.
Low-flow plumbing fixtures conserve water by reducing consumption.
80% of the trees and non-turf ornamental plant species used are native to the local area. This reduces water consumption by utilizing plants that thrive in typical weather conditions instead of mechanical irrigation.
“It was an honor to contribute my expertise as a LEED Green Associate to design a high-performance facility that is a responsible contribution to the built environment.
We had a lot of fun with the playful design, incorporating moments for discovery, social interaction and collaboration within the space.”
~Hussein Mbarak, Assoc. AIA, NOMA, LEED GA
Project Manager
Construction Contract Amount: $10,600,000
Construction Start: May 2021
Construction Complete: March 2022
Contractor: Big Sky Construction
Program Manager: Jacobs Solutions Inc.
Project Team:
Building Award Winning
Communities Since 2001
Offices
440 Benmar Drive, Suite 3335
Houston Texas 77060
1341 West Mockingbird Lane, Suite 600W
Dallas, Texas 75247
4507 Sterling Avenue, Suite 306
Peoria, Illinois 61615
Kamerain Smith is a graduate of Prairie View A&M University, she blends aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability in her projects. Her passion for architecture shines through her work at IDG+ Architects, where she contributes innovative ideas and pushes design boundaries.
With her talent and commitment, she is set to become a Designer I in August, leaving a lasting impact on the built environment.
"I am inspired to be part of a team whose innovative design aligns with my own aspirations."
Reuben Cheeks is a graduate of Prairie View A&M University with a Master's in Architecture (Dec 2020). He excels in design, planning, and physical model-making, dedicated to innovative architecture.
In Boston (2020-2022), he contributed to the National Organization of Minority Architects and was an Outreach Co-Chair for Project Pipeline. Reuben also holds a WELL Accredited Professional License since April 2023 & plans to learn more through working and being of service to the community & built environment.
“Through my experiences I want to help reshape the way we think and feel about architecture. People who live, work, and play in our spaces are the ones we design for.”
Embarking on her journey as an architecture intern, Destiny has since been diligently broadening her expertise within the field while actively enhancing her design capabilities through various projects at IDG+ Architects.
While at IDG+ Architects, she is finishing her bachelor's degree at the University of Texas at Arlington. Her ongoing aspirations revolve around achieving excellence in addressing architectural challenges and further refining her skills.
"Every project is a canvas, and with dedication and intent, we can craft a meaningful masterpiece in architecture."
Building Award Winning
Communities Since 2001
Offices
440 Benmar Drive, Suite 3335
Houston Texas 77060
1341 West Mockingbird Lane, Suite 600W
Dallas, Texas 75247
4507 Sterling Avenue, Suite 306
Peoria, Illinois 61615
In an era defined by rapid urbanization, sustainability challenges, and evolving design paradigms, here at IDG+ Architects we recognize the need to engage with the dynamic energy of young communities. The convergence of experienced professionals with the fresh perspectives of young architects is shaping the future of our architectural practice in remarkable ways.
This collaboration fosters an environment where established architects and designers bring decades of experience, wisdom, and a deep understanding of architectural principles as mentorship while championing the preservation of architectural heritage.
Together we are focusing on a future where buildings are not just functional spaces but also art forms that contribute to the wellbeing of communities and the planet.
We guide students through all stages of design using provoking and fun exercises. Students investigate through drawing and model building, analyze through diagramming and research, and engage through interviews and site visits. By the program’s conclusion, students present a fully realized project that addresses an issue in their city.
Project Pipeline serves a diverse population of students, all of whom are underrepresented in the design field. The program better prepares students for college and life beyond. Through Project Pipeline, young people grasp the significance of architecture in their daily lives, as well as the broader cultural, social, and historical implications. They develop skills and tools to contribute to their community critically and constructively. Project Pipeline has served more than 10,000 students over the last decade.
NOMA’s local summer camps provide 6th-12th grade students of color with the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of architecture and design. Students that participate in the camps work closely with architects and designers to create the designs they would like to see in their communities. Not only do students create designs, but they are also connected with mentors in the architecture field to help guide their interests. For many students, Project Pipeline is their first introduction to the design world.
IDG+ Architects volunteered at the AIA Houston monthly workshop for September 2023. We had the opportunity to be involved with the local artist and students including critiquing their creature designs. Being involved with AIA Houston is our way to be closer to the Houston community.
This program hosted by the Kids + Architecture Committee created a morning workshop of creature designing and nest building.
The students 7-13 years old got a peek inside the design process and toured an artist installation before designing their own creature and nest. A variety of craft supplies and found materials were on hand and students were encouraged to bring recycled materials from home.
The Hip Hop Architecture Camp is a revolutionary program founded in 2016 by Michael Ford, the esteemed licensed architect and cultural trailblazer known as The Hip Hop Architect.
This program was a great way to help kids of many backgrounds come together to not only learn about architecture but HIP HOP architecture and how it’s a realm for your culture and blackness. It brings together many perspectives and drives the matter that Black designers should be designing our Black spaces.
This week-long intensive experience is specifically designed to empower underrepresented youth to explore and excel in the fields of architecture, urban planning, and creative placemaking through the lens of hip hop culture.
Our program is based on the "4C's" - Creativity, Collaboration, Communication, and Critical Thinking - and brings together students with top industry professionals, including architects, urban planners, designers, community activists, and Hip Hop artists. Together, they work to envision and create innovative designs for their own communities, using a range of mediums including physical models, digital models, and even their own original Hip Hop Architecture track and music video.
Building Award Winning
Communities Since 2001
Offices
440 Benmar Drive, Suite 3335
Houston Texas 77060
1341 West Mockingbird Lane, Suite 600W
Dallas, Texas 75247
4507 Sterling Avenue, Suite 306
Peoria, Illinois 61615
Building Award Winning
Communities Since 2001
Offices
440 Benmar Drive, Suite 3335
Houston Texas 77060
1341 West Mockingbird Lane, Suite 600W
Dallas, Texas 75247
4507 Sterling Avenue, Suite 306
Peoria, Illinois 61615
A program by AIA Dallas, the Emerging Leadership Program (ELP) identifies, cultivates and mentors young leaders in three areas of leadership: the firm, the profession and our community. Going into its 12th year, the Emerging Leaders Program boasts more than 250 graduates and draws rave reviews through its curriculum that combines leadership discussions, class-developed panels, and three separate class projects benefiting the greater community.
The community project undertaken by DeQualés Thompson’s group included the design of a mobile library and school supply shop for the Northwest Education Fund (NEF) the mobile unit names “Neffie” provides school supplies and books to campuses across Northwest ISD’s school district.
Building Award Winning
Communities Since 2001
Offices
440 Benmar Drive, Suite 3335
Houston Texas 77060
1341 West Mockingbird Lane, Suite 600W
Dallas, Texas 75247
4507 Sterling Avenue, Suite 306
Peoria, Illinois 61615
Ben McMillan, CEO of IDG+ Architects, announces a third office in downtown Dallas. Ben would like to thank you for your consistent support as we welcome a return to working in person beginning in March 2022.
IDG+ Architects was founded in 2001, as a multi-disciplined, full service architectural firm offering a full-range of architectural services including survey and analysis of existing facilities, programming, planning and interiors.
IDG+ is guided by the principle that conscientious, proper design has an enduring value. IDG+ applies the most creative and advanced technology with equal concern for economy, aesthetics, function and durability to achieve the most effective design solution that satisfies the needs, goals and objectives of the client.
1341 West Mockingbird Lane
Suite 600W
Dallas, Texas 75247
IDG+ Architects has been honored to have the opportunity to design the Peoria Fire Station #4, which will be named after Edward B. Gaines Jr, the first Black firefighter in Peoria, Illinois. This fire station is not just a place where firefighters work, but it is also a tribute to the legacy of Mr. Gaines, who was a pioneer in his field and an inspiration to future generations.
The design of the station is both practical and modern. The building is equipped with the latest technology and state-of-the-art equipment to ensure that firefighters can respond to emergencies efficiently and effectively. The design incorporates many sustainable features to reduce the building's environmental impact, including energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems and the use of recycled materials.
In addition to being a functional fire station, the design also pays tribute to the life and legacy of Edward B. Gaines Jr. The building's exterior features a mural that depicts Mr. Gaines and the history of the Peoria Fire Department. The mural serves as a reminder of the bravery and commitment of the firefighters who serve the community, as well as the important contributions of Mr. Gaines.
Inside the station, there is a dedicated area that honors Mr. Gaines, with photos and other memorabilia that tell the story of his life and accomplishments. This area is a reminder of the important role that Mr. Gaines played in the history of the Peoria Fire Department, and it serves as an inspiration to future generations of firefighters and community members.
You can learn more about Mr. Gaines' story here.
"It's particularly exciting when we design a civic project, especially when it honors a local fire station's historic member.
Our focus on sustainable features reduced the building's environmental impact, including energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems.
Designing an environment that houses major equipment, while also serving as a home base, was a challenge we enjoyed. The addition of the commemorative portrait of Edward B. Gaines was a meaningful addition.
This project is another example of our commitment to bringing our very best to this community."
~ Aaron Gunn Associate Managing Principal, Peoria IL
Project Name: City of Peoria Fire Station No. 4
Client: City of Peoria
Date of Start: April 2021
Date of Finish: April 2022
Square Foot: 6,300 S.F.
Construction Contract Amount: $2,300,000.00
Total Construction Cost at Project End: $2,300,000.00
Contractor: E Joseph Construction
Contract Type: Competitive Sealed Proposal
Description: Programming, Schematic Design, DD's
Construction Documents, Bid/Negotiations,
Construction Administration
Client: Jason Meeks (Facilities Maintenance Manager)
IDG+ Team: Ben McMillan III, Anas Sada, Peggy Nordman, Joy Boleigha
Building Award Winning
Communities Since 2001
Offices
440 Benmar Drive, Suite 3335
Houston Texas 77060
1341 West Mockingbird Lane, Suite 600W
Dallas, Texas 75247
4507 Sterling Avenue, Suite 306
Peoria, Illinois 61615
DeQualés Thompson is Associate Managing Principal at IDG+ Architects' Dallas office, who recently returned to the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex after 13 years. As a former instructor and alumnus of Prairie View A&M University, he believes education is at the core of his personal ethos. Thompson's pursuit of education has nurtured his curiosity, passion, and precision, all with the aim of creating a better tomorrow for all.
According to the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), Black and African American architects only make up 2% of all licensed architects in the United States. However, Thompson is one of the architects that stands out in this minority group. He has won competitions in places such as Malawi and Switzerland, and his curiosity towards travel and culture has led him to explore how places can support, connect, and inspire people.
Thompson's goal is to become the next CEO of IDG+ Architects, where he aims to foster an organization that produces thoughtful, sustainable, and socially responsible architecture around the world. He seeks to create an architecture that serves and is experienced by the general public and underserved communities.
In terms of education, becoming a licensed architect requires a great deal of study, commitment, and experience. According to the NCARB, it takes candidates an average of over 11 years to become a registered architect. During which, aspiring architects must also pass the Architect Registration Examination (ARE), a six-part exam that can take years to complete.
Thompson is also a newlywed, and he credits his lovely wife Addis as his inspiration and support. Aside from his professional pursuits, he is an avid reader and a novice woodworker who enjoys art, culture, and politics. In a recent report by NCARB in partnership the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA), there are significant disparities for people of color in the field of architecture. However, architects like Thompson continue to challenge the status quo and serve as role models for aspiring architects from underrepresented communities.
Thompson is part of a growing community of Black architects who are making a significant impact in the industry. In an interview with Cultured Magazine, 15 Black architects shared their experiences and perspectives on being Black in architecture. The interview highlights the challenges and opportunities that Black architects face in the field. Despite these challenges, architects like Thompson remain dedicated to creating a better future for all through thoughtful, sustainable, and socially responsible architecture.
IDG+ Architects was founded in 2001, as a multi-disciplined, full service architectural firm offering a full-range of architectural services including survey and analysis of existing facilities, programming, planning and interiors.
IDG+ is guided by the principle that conscientious, proper design has an enduring value. IDG+ applies the most creative and advanced technology with equal concern for economy, aesthetics, function and durability to achieve the most effective design solution that satisfies the needs, goals and objectives of the client.
We look forward to meeting you in our office:
1341 West Mockingbird Lane, Suite 600W
Dallas, TX 75247
For more information visit idgarch.com or call 214-387-2308.
Building Award Winning
Communities Since 2001
Offices
440 Benmar Drive, Suite 3335
Houston Texas 77060
1341 West Mockingbird Lane, Suite 600W
Dallas, Texas 75247
4507 Sterling Avenue, Suite 306
Peoria, Illinois 61615
Starting a business is no easy feat, but Sweat Box Gym in Humble, TX has managed to do just that and more. Founded in 2019, the gym has quickly grown in size and popularity, becoming a community staple and an inspiration for other trainers.
The gym began as a small space within a larger facility called Fit Crew Houston, with just four punching bags and a mat. But it didn't take long for the gym to outgrow its humble beginnings. In just six weeks, the gym expanded from 700 SF to 1500 SF, and by 2020, they had acquired 2,200 SF at another facility. But even that wasn't enough to satisfy the demand of the classes, and by 2021, they had run out of space.
Enter owner Johannes "Jo" Azucena, who had a vision for a mixed-use facility where he could work and live, allowing him to be near his family and young children. With a dedicated team and a commitment to community-focused fitness, Sweat Box Gym has become a local success story.
One of the things that sets this gym apart is its commitment to family-focused programming. In addition to classes for fighters and crossfitters, they offer events and opportunities for children and families, including snowball fights in the winter, water slides and water balloon toss in the summer, family hiking trips at Lake Houston Park, and children’s health coaching programs.
IDG+ Architect's design, as well as the expertise and execution by Mero Construction played a crucial role in the success of Sweat Box Gym. Jo was heavily involved in the process, and loved the visioning exercises with the design-build team. The gym is located in an industrial area of Humble that doesn't see a lot of development, but with a renovated site and a new business that is family-centered, families coming from the gym during events or classes visit the surrounding businesses and have supported the local economy in ways that it was not supported before.
One of the standout features of Sweat Box Gym is its HVAC system, which allows for natural ventilation while still maintaining comfort in the gym and residence. Jo praised the design team for their quick response time and understanding of his unique needs.
Sweat Box Gym is not just a success story for its owners, but for the entire community. It is an example of what can happen when a business is committed to serving its customers and supporting its local economy.
As Jo said, "The building can serve as an inspiration for a new typology in an old but new commercial development." We can't wait to see what Sweatbox Gym achieves next.
~ Jo Azucena
Owner, Sweat Box Gym
Building Award Winning
Communities Since 2001
Offices
440 Benmar Drive, Suite 3335
Houston Texas 77060
1341 West Mockingbird Lane, Suite 600W
Dallas, Texas 75247
4507 Sterling Avenue, Suite 306
Peoria, Illinois 61615