The relocation of administrative offices and the addition of lower-level offices, built underneath an existing courtyard, allow for the new Lenhardt Library, which contains expanded storage space and a climate-controlled environment for the Garden’s extensive rare book collection. Courtyards display a world-renowned bonsai collection, and halls and galleries are added for exhibitions. Waterproofing the exterior space from the new interior spaces below required careful coordination, which was further complicated because the new construction sits below the water table.
The renovated building re establishes the original concept of connected interior spaces that provide fluidity for exhibitions and education, while maintaining and restoring original materials.
Regenstein Center Renovation
Type: CulturalLocation: Glencoe, IL
Client: Chicago Botanic Garden
Year: 2008
Size: 379,000 sf
Status: Built