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.

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.

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.

IDG+ Architects has been honored to have the opportunity to design the Washington Middle School, District #186 Springfield Public Schools (SPS186).

IDG+ partnered with Springfield Public Schools 186 to provide architectural services on multiple projects through several phases of the school district’s $200M facilities plan.

Using our experience and understanding of design and the project planning process coupled with the teamwork of SPS 186, IDG+ has been able to execute projects at four of Springfield’s most iconic schools that will impact the community for generations to come.

Washington Middle School, located in Springfield, Illinois, is among the four iconic schools undergoing major renovations as part of the Springfield Public Schools 186's $200M facilities plan. The project, which is being spearheaded by IDG+ Architects in partnership with the school district, aims to improve the learning environment for students and enhance the school's overall infrastructure.

The Washington Middle School project is set to include a complete overhaul of the building's electrical, mechanical, and plumbing systems, as well as upgrades to the school's security features. The project involves the construction of new classrooms, administrative offices, and a cafeteria, all aimed at creating a more modern and functional learning space for students.

The partnership between IDG+ Architects and Springfield Public Schools 186 has been praised for its emphasis on collaboration and teamwork. IDG+ Architects' Associate Managing Principal, Aaron Gunn, stated that "we have a really great relationship with the school district, and we're working together to ensure that every project is executed with excellence and meets the needs of the students and faculty."

The Washington Middle School project is just one example of the Springfield Public Schools 186’s commitment to providing its students with top-notch facilities that are conducive to learning and growth further highlighting the school district's dedication to its students and community.