Illinois Institute of Technology: Metals South Building

Constructed around 1943, the Metals South Building at The Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) campus is a testament to the pioneering work of Modernist architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. This historically significant structure is composed of steel and masonry, featuring two uneven bays aligned along the East-West axis with approximately 20 feet on center.

Specialty Consulting, Inc. (SPC) was commissioned to perform comprehensive façade inspections from a swing stage, meticulously examining the building and documenting all findings in strict compliance with the City Façade Ordinance requirements. SPC's responsibilities included assessing significant leaks around windows and frames, and conducting thorough field investigations, reporting, and cost estimations. They reviewed existing documents and took precise measurements to identify, locate, and quantify window leaks using ladders or lifts. Furthermore, SPC tested building materials for asbestos and lead-based paint, conducted water infiltration testing, and developed a program to eliminate leaking windows.

One unique challenge was maintaining the historical integrity of the building while addressing modern safety and efficiency standards. SPC’s solution involved a careful balance of preservation and innovation, ensuring the structural soundness and aesthetic preservation of this iconic Modernist structure.