International Contractors, Inc. Fall Newsletter 2011

INTERNATIONAL CONTRACTORS, INC.

FALL 2011

ICI Insights

Building Solutions withofthe Power of People.

Building Solutions with the Power People.

In This Issue A Year of Firsts in Auto Dealership Construction Volvo Northfield The first Volvo in the country to pursue LEED Silver Certification

MINI Chicago Opening recently in Lincoln Park, the city’s first MINI dealership

Fiat Highland Park The first Fiat to return to Illinois in over 25 years

Block Center for Integrative Cancer Care A new Skokie facility offering patients a unique treatment environment

Chicago Welcomes Two New Restaurants: Cantina Laredo and III Forks Steakhouse

The Partnership Continues: Benedictine University Dan & Ada Rice Athletic Center

Lights, Camera, Action!

ICI Teams with ESPN for the Renovation of a CPS Athletic Facility

© Photos by Daniel Broten

A Year of Firsts Volvo, Northfield:

The first Volvo dealership in the U.S. to pursue LEED Silver Certification.

Wind Spires, an extensive Rainwater Harvesting System, an Eco Garden and Photovoltaic Panels all contribute to the sustainability of this new Volvo dealership. The project is registered with the U.S. Green Building Council to achieve the Silver Level of LEED Certification.

2011

has been an exciting year of firsts in auto dealership

the auto group continually demonstrates their commitment to

construction for International Contractors, Inc.. Since February, ICI

building long-term relationships through extraordinary customer

has completed three significant dealership projects: the first Volvo

service. The level of service at the Fields Auto Group’s new 27,500

dealership in the nation to pursue LEED Silver Certification, the first

SF Volvo Dealership is no exception; and now there is an additional

MINI dealership in the city of Chicago and the first FIAT dealership

customer benefit:

to return to Illinois in over 25 years.

With 32 franchises at 20 locations across the country, the Fields Automotive Group has a wide-reaching reputation for providing a high level of service at each of their dealerships. From theater rooms to on-staff chefs and full-service cafĂŠs at several locations, 2

The new building boasts a healthier indoor environment, uses renewable energy sources and provides opportunities for sustainable education. Wind turbines, an extensive rainwater harvesting system with two 2,500 gallon above-ground silos and a 10,000 gallon underground storage tank and solar panels at both ground level

and on the roof are all sustainable features of the new dealership.

in turn raises the

An on-site Eco Garden with native landscaping will be used to

shades as the sun passes throughout the day to allow additional

teach visitors the importance of environmental consciousness by

light in. The system is programmed to adjust to the position of the

featuring examples of these renewable energy systems. The solar panel system located on the roof and in the Eco Garden produces between 3-5% of the building’s energy.

The showroom is also equipped with a number of distinctively

sun through the seasons. A monitor on display in the showroom continuously displays how much energy the building is producing through its many renewable energy strategies.

During construction, ICI implemented a Construction Waste Management Program and achieved the goal of diverting 95% of

“green” features. An automated shading system lowers shades to

all construction debris from the waste stream through recycling,

reduce the heat and glare from the sun at its strongest angle and

reduction and reuse.

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MINI of Chicago:

Chicago’s First MINI Dealership Opens in Lincoln Park Following the completion of the Fields Volvo in Northfield,

passersby a view into the dark interior accentuating the

ICI began a new, complex project for the client in

bold colors of the cars within. This creates an eye-catching

Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood. ICI was contracted

entrance on this well-traveled street. The showroom

to completely gut and renovate an existing 14,000 SF

features interior aluminum and glass storefront partitions,

service and parts building on Diversey Parkway and

stained concrete flooring, ceramic tile, and plastic laminate

Sheffield Avenue and expand the building to allow for a

cabinets with solid

new 7,000 SF showroom. The resulting space became

surface

counter

Chicago’s first BMW MINI Dealership.

tops.

project

was

The

successfully

The renovation of the existing space included the

completed

in

a

installation of new underground plumbing systems, new

highly-aggressive 5

mechanical and electrical systems, non-load bearing

month schedule.

masonry walls, new overhead doors and vitrified ceramic tile. The designer, JRB Group Architects, elected to keep the existing exposed wood truss roof in the service area; a

Service & Parts Renovation

6

striking element in the expansive space.

The dynamic design of the building’s exterior called for a 20’ high glass curtainwall system and aluminum composite panel cladding. These large expanses of glass allow

1111 WEST DIVERSEY PARKWAY IN LINCOLN PARK 4

new showroom, offices

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After a 27 year absence, Chrysler Corporation brought FIAT back to the United States. News of the launch was announced last year and a limited number of dealers were invited to apply for a franchise. The Fields Auto Group was among the 130 dealers selected from across the country to open a franchise in 2011, and they turned to International Contractors, Inc. for the construction of their new Highland Park location.

In an effort to attract millennials to the showroom and to make car buying a collaborative process with the sales team, all new franchises are referred to as Fiat Studios rather than dealerships. The new studios strike a balance of stylish and modern design with approachability. From the large expanses of glass around the showroom shedding light on the activity within, to the distinct red metal panels reinforcing the Fiat brand, the studios evoke a sense of Italian sophistication.

The Fiat 500 coup will be the first car introduced to the U.S. market in the new rollout. This signature model is expected to pave the way for the additional models that will make their debut as the brand becomes more established in the states.

The Return of FIAT: Illinois’ First FIAT Studio Opens

relocated from their former Highland Park location. ICI then began converting this newly vacated space into the new Highland Park Fiat Studio.

The transformation was impressive. In just 8 weeks, ICI demolished and replaced the existing façade of the Volvo building, renovated the showroom, sales and customer areas and installed all new interior finishes and signage. The success of this fast-paced turnover was due in large part to ICI’s preconstruction coordination with the architect, JRB Group, and the owner. Fiat-approved materials and long-lead items were pre-ordered to ensure the team would meet the targeted completion date. Opening with a celebration 27 years in the making, Fields Auto Group became the first dealer to bring the FIAT 500 to Illinois. International Contractors, Inc. is proud to have played an important role in this significant project.

After International Contractors completed the new Volvo Dealership in Northfield, Volvo

Back in the U.S. after more than 25 Years

THE BLOCK CENTER FOR

INTEGRATIVE CANCER CARE Founded nearly 30 years ago, the Block Center for Integrative Cancer Care is a leader in the field of cancer treatment. Patients turn to the Block Center for a combination of state-of-the-art conventional cancer treatments and scientificallybased integrative therapies. These integrative therapies are customized to the individual’s needs and can include anything from personalized nutrition plans to targeted molecular therapies to physical exercise regiments.

The Block Center team that develops these treatments and therapies includes board-certified oncologists, internists, physicians assistants, oncology nurses, psychologists, social workers, registered dieticians, physical and massage therapists, medical researchers, complementary care specialists, medical researchers and patient care coordinators.

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This large group of specialists depends upon an environment that allows their patients the best opportunity to improve their overall quality of life while undergoing cancer treatment. For this reason, their newly renovated and expanded 18,000 SF space in Skokie contains a variety of unique spaces with a common theme: providing comfort to those undergoing treatment.

International Contractors collaborated with YAS Architecture on the construction of this 4,500 SF first floor addition and 13,500 SF renovation. ICI constructed twenty-two chemotherapy rooms, five wellness/exam rooms, a physical therapy space, men’s and women’s saunas, a demonstration kitchen, lecture area, patient lounge, physicians’ offices and clinical areas.

The

project

incorporated

many

complex components and upgraded finishes to provide patients with a high degree of comfort. The design called for an abundance of natural light throughout the space, creating a calming atmosphere for those receiving treatment. The patient lounge in the atrium uses both natural light and soft artificial lighting and plush furniture to create a comforting, home-like environment.

The

large,

sweeping

staircase in the center of the building links the floors in an open, spacious manner and the exam rooms avoid a sterile feel through the use images from nature on the walls. A Zen Garden at the entry of the building also serves to reduces patient apprehension and boost treatment effectiveness.

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A peek inside Chicago’s new gourmet Mexican restaurant,

facing State Street offers additional seating during these

Cantina Laredo, offers sweeping views of richly textured

final weeks of summer weather and a 38’ tall fireplace

walls with custom artwork, white limestone fireplaces,

clad with natural stone is sure to keep guests warm as the

sleek Italian leather seating and a show-stopping glass

season shifts.

staircase. Located in the heart of River North at State and Illinois Street, the ground up two-story, 17,000 square

A glass and steel staircase leads guests to a second level

foot restaurant will undoubtedly be one of city’s new hot

with a second full-service kitchen, bar area and additional

spots.

seating. Retractable walls open for a view onto State Street and the city skyline is the backdrop.

The first floor dining area exudes a feeling of cozy sophistication with multiple fireplaces, douglas fir

For nearly a year now International Contractors has

tongue and groove walls, polished concrete floors, and

been collaborating with owners, Consolidated Restaurant

LED lighting throughout. Two private dining areas are

Operations (CRO), and Weiss Architects to bring this

Cantina Laredo & III Forks Steakhouse

separated by glass partitions; the smaller of the two features a rack with space for over 1,000 bottles of wine. An outdoor patio 8

concept to life. The year has been eventful for the team, to

A steel and glass staircase with leather-wrapped handrails

say the least, as Cantina Laredo was constructed in concert

leads guests to a rooftop deck. Elegant trellises with lush

with a second CRO concept, III Forks Steakhouse.

plantings will highlight the space, softening the surrounding urban landscape. The deck offers unsurpassed views of

The dining experience at

Lakeshore East Park

III Forks Steakhouse in

and the surrounding

Chicago’s Lakeshore East

skyline.

development is sure to be equally popular as CRO’s

These new projects

first Chicago venture and

are the ninth and

a welcome addition to the

tenth restaurants that

Chicago restaurant scene.

ICI has completed in two square miles of

With six other locations in

downtown Chicago

Texas and Florida, III Forks

in recent years. ICI

Steakhouse has perfected the fusion of great food, great

has also completed Rock Bottom Brewery (next door to

service and a great atmosphere. Opening to the public

Cantina Laredo), ZED 451, China Grill, Brazzaz, Fogo

in early October, the build-out of this 3-story, 16,000 SF

de Chao, McCormick & Schmick’s, and Martini Park, to

restaurant is taking place in the city’s rapidly developing

name a few. ICI’s experience in restaurant construction is

Lakeshore East neighborhood. The restaurant will be

not limited to the Chicago area, however. Our expertise

housed in the Village Market Center and features high

is nationally recognized; with projects varying in scope

end finishes, including walnut millwork and marble

and size from small family-owned cafes to nationally

accents.

franchised, high-end steakhouses.

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The Partnership Continues:

Benedictine University’s Dan & Ada Rice Athletic Center Nears Completion As athletics were first developing at Benedictine University

The building contained a non-operational pool in the

more than thirty years ago, Dan and Ada Rice brought

Natatorium. The renovation plans called for this space to

forth their vision for an athletic facility that would educate,

be back-filled and for a Fitness Center to take its place.

improve physical fitness and provide a spirit of competition

The new 7,500 square foot Fitness Center includes a first

at the school. In 1976, the two contributed nearly $1.4

floor cardio and circuit training area, a 5,200 square foot

million to the construction of the Rice Center. Today, the

strength training area, yoga/pilates studios, conference

building still has a significant presence on campus; serving

studios, a reception space, as well as a training room for

as the main point for recreation on campus. The University

student athletes. The training room will house a hot and cold

is continuing to advance and the Dan and Ada Rice Center

hydrotherapy plunge pool.

is now undergoing a transformation. The goal is to provide student-athletes a facility in which they can compete, train and grow.

The renovation and expansion of the Dan and Ada Rice Athletic Facility marks International Contractors’ third project as Construction Manager for Benedictine University in as many years. In partnership with DLR Group architects, ICI is transforming the school’s existing fitness center to make way for a new, modern athletic facility.

The entry of the dated facility has been demolished and a sleek glass, metal panel and masonry addition have taken its place; reinforcing the facility’s significant presence on campus.

The Athletic Department and Coaching Staff’s cramped offices were demolished and expanded to create an open, spacious environment. Windows were cut into the masonry to allow the perimeter offices natural light. The new facility is scheduled to open to students in late October.

International Contractors’ continued partnership with the University has spanned the length of several projects and is also rooted in a friendship shared between ICI president, Bruce Bronge, and Benedictine President, William J. Carroll. The 2011 President’s Partner of the Year Award was presented to Bruce this past spring, with Carroll acknowledging him as “A special university friend who created a positive collaborative relationship with the University.”

Dan & Ada Rice Athletic Center 10

Anticipated Completion: October 2011

Lights Camera

Action!

ICI Teams with ESPN, the Bulls and the Chicago Public Schools to Renovate Walter H. Dyett High School’s Athletic Facilities

This past spring, International Contractors was contacted by the cable network ESPN to collaborate on an upcoming documentary called RISE UP. The segment captures the transformation of an inner-city school’s athletic facility during a major renovation and refurbishment; concluding with a surprise reveal for the student body. The construction is tracked from start to finish and the resulting documentary will air nationally this coming October on ESPN. Selected from among hundreds of applicants nationally, Dyett High School athletic director Clarence Smith’s winning letter set into motion a series of improvements that aim to engage the student body and provide them with much needed equipment and facility upgrades.

Renovations and improvements include a new rock climbing wall, refinishing of the gymnasium floor, installation of interactive SMART boards, new exercise equipment, a complete remodel of the ROTC area including new resin flooring, replacement of light fixtures, painting throughout the entire facility and new basketball hoops in the gymnasium.

In keeping with International Contractors’ commitment to community reinvestment, the ICI team donated labor, equipment usage, select materials and the coordination of subcontractors’ labor/material donations.

For more information, please visit: http://frontrow.espn.go.com/2011/09/espnsrise-up-the-chicago-reveal/

Watch RISE UP!

on ESPN Rise Up will air on from 7-8 p.m. ET 11 October 4, 20

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ICI Leadership Bruce Bronge PRESIDENT

Randall A. Bronge, LEED AP BD+C EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

Tim Jackson, LEED AP VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS

Marc Poskin, CPE, LEED AP CHIEF ESTIMATOR DIRECTOR OF K-12 EDUCATION

Tony Wygonski CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Joe Fahey VICE PRESIDENT OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

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