Excellence in Architecture Winner

Altgeld Hall – Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, Illinois

Burnidge Cassell Associates

Northern Illinois University’s most prominent architectural structure has undergone a complete renovation. Where appropriate, key historical areas were restored to their original grandeur.  The construction began in the fall of 1999 and ended with the building Re-dedication on October 7th, 2004.

The greatest challenge for renovation specialists working on Altgeld Hall wasn’t the asbestos that permeated every inch of plaster in the 130,000-square foot building. It wasn’t the need to completely rebuild the structure’s heating, air conditioning and ventilation system. It wasn’t the lack of clear through corridors, or third floor spaces that were inaccessible to each other. It wasn’t even the lack of original blueprints to guide interior demolition efforts.

Altgeld Hall’s most formidable structural obstacles paled in comparison to the larger, more philosophical challenge it presented: preserving an historic landmark while creating useful, modern space. BCA sought to recreate the look and feel of a century gone by and to integrate the technology needed to move the building into its next 100 years of service. In short, the real Altgeld challenge was about creating a place where past and future come together to inspire future generations.