Farragut High School
Client
Chicago Public Schools
Industry
Education
Delivery Method
General Contractor
Architect
Project Profile
Michuda Construction successfully completed the 1928 expansion of Farragut Career Academy in Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood. The project addressed the urgent need for additional classroom space due to growing student enrollment. The expansion doubled the school’s capacity by adding new south and west wings, providing state-of-the-art educational facilities for the time.
PROJECT PROFILE
Farragut Career Academy Expansion 1928
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Client: Chicago Public Schools
Delivery Method: General Contractor
PROJECT OUTCOME
Michuda Construction successfully completed the 1928 expansion of Farragut Career Academy in Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood. The project addressed the urgent need for additional classroom space due to growing student enrollment. The expansion doubled the school’s capacity by adding new south and west wings, providing state-of-the-art educational facilities for the time.
PROJECT SCOPE
The 1928 expansion of Farragut Career Academy involved significant architectural and structural work to seamlessly integrate new facilities with the original building while enhancing the school’s overall functionality.
Key Elements of the Project:
New Classroom Wings: Construction of expansive south and west sections, effectively doubling the school’s original size.
Auditorium and Gymnasium Upgrades: Modernized spaces for student assemblies, performances, and physical education, reflecting advancements in design and functionality.
Structural Integration: The project maintained the aesthetic continuity of the original 1920 structure with matching brickwork and architectural details.
Infrastructure Improvements: Enhanced electrical, plumbing, and heating systems to meet the demands of a larger student population.
CHALLENGES & SOLUTIONS
Maintaining Academic Operations:Challenge: Construction had to proceed without disrupting daily school activities.Solution: Implemented phased construction schedules and worked during off-hours to minimize disturbances.
Architectural Consistency:Challenge: Ensuring the new additions matched the original 1920 building's historic design.Solution: Collaborated closely with architects to replicate the original facade and interior finishes.
Space Optimization:Challenge: Maximizing usable space within the expanded footprint.Solution: Innovative design solutions ensured efficient use of new classrooms and shared spaces.
LEGACY
The 1928 expansion cemented Farragut Career Academy's status as a cornerstone of education in Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood. The work delivered by Michuda Construction allowed the school to serve its growing community while preserving its historic charm, setting the stage for its continued evolution as an educational institution.