Photos courtesy of Cordogan Clark & Associates
SERVICES
Mechanical
Electrical
Plumbing
Fire Protection
SIZE
6,500 SF
AWARDS
2018 American School & University, Outstanding Design
2018 Learning by Design, Outstanding Project
2017 Chicago Innovation Award, People’s Choice Award
CLIENT
Cordogan Clark & Associates
AURORA, IL
RTM provided MEP/FP engineering design for the renovation of existing classroom and office space into a state-of-the-art, 6,500-square-foot innovation center designed to ignite collaboration and entrepreneurial activity among students, educators, business, and the community.
IN2 feels more like a contemporary office space rather than a traditional academic classroom. The center gives students the tools to present, share, discuss, and build their ideas. IN2 features an open design with resources for students to explore maker projects, 3D technology and more. The center also features an office space for an entrepreneur-in-residence, as well as a media wall, idea bar, and cafe.
The redesigned space allows students to collaborate with corporate partners such as British Petroleum, ComEd, Caterpillar, and organizations such as Illinois Computing Educators, Illinois Institute of Technology, Northwestern, the University of Illinois, and community members with specific areas of expertise.
The mission of the center is to empower youth and adults through collaborative and culturally responsive experiences that inspire innovative and entrepreneurial thinking.