• Façade Assessment
• Historic Preservation
• Construction Administration
• Field Investigations
Specialty Consulting, Inc. (SPC) undertook an extensive exterior renovation project for the Oak Forest Hospital Campus in Oak Forest, Illinois, involving 45 buildings primarily constructed between 1916 and 1940. These historic masonry buildings feature ornamental stone and brickwork, window treatments, and terra cotta sills, copings, and cornices, all of which required careful preservation and restoration.
The project commenced with thorough field investigations and condition surveys to evaluate the as-built condition of each building. Based on these evaluations, a comprehensive renovation program was developed, along with construction budgets. Detailed repair drawings, specifications, and construction cost estimates were prepared to guide the restoration work.
To efficiently manage the renovation of all 45 buildings, the project was divided into three separate bid packages and contracts. This phased approach ensured that all repair work was completed within a one-year schedule and budget, all while maintaining the historical integrity of the campus.
The renovation program included the repair or replacement of damaged brickwork, corroded steel lintels, and terra cotta and limestone cornices, copings, and windowsills. Additional repairs addressed damaged windows, perimeter sealant, stucco walls, stairs, ramps, metal railings, copper downspouts, and roof flashings. The unique challenge of preserving the historic character of these vintage buildings while implementing modern restoration techniques was successfully met, ensuring the campus's architectural heritage was maintained.
