
Image courtesy of AJ Brown Imaging
SERVICES
Mechanical
Electrical
Plumbing
Fire Protection
SIZE
48,000 SF
AWARDS
Award of Merit – Illinois Association of School Boards (IASB)
Citation of Excellence: Adaptive Reuse – Learning by Design Awards
Honor Award: Excellence in Interiors – AIA Illinois
First Place, Interiors – Metamorphosis Awards (Retrofit Magazine)
Preservation/Renovation Honor Award – AIA Northeast Illinois
OWNER
Galesburg CUSD #205
ARCHITECT
Legat Architects
GALESBURG, IL
RTM Engineering Consultants provided mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection engineering for the transformation of an existing 48,000-square-foot commercial building into the new Bright Futures Preschool for Galesburg CUSD #205. The renovated facility includes early-learning classrooms, therapy and support spaces, administrative areas, and a large multi-purpose commons designed to promote flexible, nature-inspired learning environments. The redesign converted the former church/warehouse into a biophilic preschool where natural elements, playful forms, and interactive circulation spaces promote exploration and support diverse early-learning needs, creating a warm and welcoming setting for students, families, and staff.
Mechanical upgrades included new high-efficiency HVAC systems, enhanced ventilation, and improved comfort control tailored to classrooms, sensory spaces, and the open-volume concourse. Electrical design incorporated new LED lighting with daylight harvesting, accent lighting for architectural features, and updated power distribution to support classroom technology and staff workspaces.
Plumbing modifications reconfigured domestic water, sanitary, and storm systems for multiple restroom clusters and classroom sinks, while fire protection work adapted the existing sprinkler system to meet the new layout and educational occupancy requirements. RTM’s integrated MEP/FP approach delivered a safe, energy-efficient, and modern environment that supports the district’s early-learning programming and enhances the overall student and staff experience.
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