Creating toward a better tomorrow

William B. Travis Academy/Vanguard
for the Academically Talented and Gifted
Nurturing the leaders of tomorrow

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.

In addition to the functional and aesthetic amenities, resilience and sustainability were key factors in the academy's design. IDG+ incorporated a storm shelter to ensure the safety and security of all students and staff. It is worth mentioning that all CHPS requirements were met. Similar to LEED, CHPS uses a credit-based metric to certify sustainable schools. Refer to the graphic below for more details.

IDG+ Architects Environmental Stewardship

"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."

William B. Travis Academy/Vanguard

Materials

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).

I.E.Q.

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.

Energy

Environmentally preferable refrigerants are used to cool the building to reduce the facilities impact on the environment.

Water

Low-flow plumbing fixtures conserve water by reducing consumption.

Site

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.

Collaborative for High Performance Schools prioritizes protecting student and staff health and enhances the learning environments of school children everywhere, conserving energy, water, and other natural resources while reducing waste, pollution, and environment degradation.
William B. Travis Academy / Vanguard for the Academically Talented and Gifted
William B. Travis Academy / Vanguard for the Academically Talented and Gifted
William B. Travis Academy / Vanguard for the Academically Talented and Gifted

“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

Key Information

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:

  • Ben S. McMillan III, AIA, NOMA, NCARB
  • Hussein Mbarak, Assoc. AIA, NOMA, LEED GA
  • Peggy Nordmann, Assoc. AIA
  • Ismael Kabre, Assoc. AIA, NOMA
  • Cristina Betanco


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

Contact

Texas
Houston 832-448-2462
Dallas 214-387-2308

Illinois
Peoria 309-670-2466

Email Us

Creating toward a better tomorrow

City of Peoria Fire Station #4

Edward B. Gaines Fire Station #4
Peoria Honors One of Their Own

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.

City of Peoria Fire Station #4
City of Peoria Fire Station #4
City of Peoria Fire Station #4

"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

 

Key Information

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

Contact

Texas
Houston 832-448-2462
Dallas 214-387-2308

Illinois
Peoria 309-670-2466

Email Us

Creating toward a better tomorrow

Sweat Box Gym:
From Humble Beginning to Community Success Story

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.

“The experience was awesome, it was insane. The space is perfect for us and it’s a dream come true.”

~ 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

Contact

Texas
Houston 832-448-2462
Dallas 214-387-2308

Illinois
Peoria 309-670-2466

Email Us

Creating toward a better tomorrow

Washington Middle School – Springfield District No. 186 IDG+ Architects Houston, TX

Washington Middle School
Springfield Public Schools 186

IDG+ Architects has been honored to have the opportunity to design the Washington Middle SchoolDistrict #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.

Washington Middle School – Springfield District No. 186 IDG+ Architects Houston, TX
Washington Middle School – Springfield District No. 186 IDG+ Architects Houston, TX
Washington Middle School – Springfield District No. 186 IDG+ Architects Houston, TX

"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."

~ Aaron Gunn
IDG+ Architects

Key Information

Client: District #186 Springfield Public Schools
Project Size (SF): 18,041 SF Addition; 8,472 SF renovation
Students Served: Approximately 572 students
Project Details: Provide new  classrooms, science labs, cafeteria, and student resource spaces
Project Manager: Ben S. McMillan III, AIA
Project Team: Ismael Kabre, Joy Boleigha, Peggy Nordmann, Aaron Gunn


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

Contact

Texas
Houston 832-448-2462
Dallas 214-387-2308

Illinois
Peoria 309-670-2466

Email Us

Creating toward a better tomorrow

Eddie Bernice Johnson Elementary School
Putting Students First

Elementary School

IDG+ Architects designed this beautiful 83,700 square foot school, which was named after Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, to serve 650 students.

The design concept was inspired by colors that support concentration and information absorption.

This vibrant and purposeful color scheme is one of the first elements to communicate the message behind the design -- on both visual and psychological levels.

This innovative facility solved community needs and enrollment growth while looking to the horizon for determining future student interests and skills.

The school serves students in Pre-K through the Fifth Grade and features an open central library and collaborative learning spaces. These collaborative learning spaces create a unique and inspirational academic experience.

Dallas Independent School District’s first brand-new school since 2015. Constructed as part of the 2015 Bond Program.

Eddie Bernice Johnson Elementary School
Eddie Bernice Johnson Elementary School
Eddie Bernice Johnson Elementary School
Elementary School
Eddie Bernice Johnson Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School

A 21st Century learning environment for students and teachers

Interior finishes include terrazzo flooring, ceramic tiling, visual display boards, folding partitions, custom millwork and an elevator as well as state-of-the-art mechanical, plumbing, electrical and technology systems.

The 83,700-square-foot campus includes an administrative area, media center, library, art and music classrooms, gymnasium, dining/stage, central plant, playgrounds, and parking.

"We were delighted to bring our best work to this 21st Century School. Our team worked with educators to design into the future.

Using light and color, we lit up the entire school while simultaneously making the most of sustainable building materials." 

~ Ben McMillan
President, IDG+ Architects

Key Information

Total Budget: $36,244,854
Construction Budget: $22,745,620
Architect: IDG+ Architects
Contractor: Ratcliff Constructors LP/VPG, JV
Program Manager: JACOBS
Project Manager: Abhi Nigudkar

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson 

“The teachers and facility in public schools across the country are responsible for inspiring and lifting millions of young people out of poverty and into the middle class. I am sure many teachers and faculty are facing difficult choices as we continue to deal with the coronavirus pandemic. Balancing their desire to help young people succeed in the future while calculating the risks going into the classroom may have on their health is no easy task. The least we can do is to stand with them and respect whatever decision is made.”


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

Contact

Texas
Houston 832-448-2462
Dallas 214-387-2308

Illinois
Peoria 309-670-2466

Email Us