CHICAGO
Office Portfolio
5
PRATICE SITE LOCATIONS
WHO WE ARE
FIRM NAME
BKV Group YEAR ESTABLISHED 1978
ESTABLISHED
S-Corporation
PRACTICE AREAS
Housing Government
Hospitality
Education
Corporate
BKV Group is a holistic design firm providing a full complement of architecture, interior design, engineering, landscape architecture, and construction administration services.
Our core belief is that regardless of project type, design has a profound impact on the community, and our responsibility as a multidisciplinary firm is to enhance the economic, aesthetic, social, and environmental context of the communities we shape and design.
WHAT WE DO
WHERE WE WORK
Collectively, we represent a practice whose expertise is team-focused and offers a client-centered approach. BKV Group’s team of architects, engineers and design professionals work collaboratively using an integrated technology platform to ensure our work is well-coordinated and of the highest quality. Our integrated approach fosters strong partnerships across all design disciplines and supports an open dialogue with our clients to find the best design solutions under budget and timing constraints, while removing redundancies and enhancing the final product.
OUR NATIONAL REACH
Collaborating regionally between our practice sites and satellite offices, BKV Group operates as a cohesive firm to deliver a wide range of project types for a diverse set of national and local clients. We leverage industry-leading communication and technology tools with best-in-class design processes to seamlessly work across the country to meet our clients’ needs, and continually expand our presence into existing and new markets.
OUR INTERNATIONAL CAPABILITIES
The four American practice sites at BKV Group are supported by BKV’s Vietnam offices in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, which contribute design services for many of our U.S. projects, and allow BKV access to the Asian markets. Furthermore, our firm is able to provide cross-practice training opportunities and structure project teams to leverage the 12-hour time difference, creating a nearly 24-hour design studio that can meet accelerated deadlines without sacrificing quality and creativity.
CHICAGO PRACTICE SITE LEADERSHIP
Kyle Yardley, AIA, LEED AP
Government Managing Partner, Partner
Kyle brings more than 30 years of experience designing and managing complex projects across both the public and private sectors. As a Government Managing Partner, he focuses on justice facilities that balance functional needs with opportunities to strengthen community trust. Kyle is driven by a passion for design and a belief that every project can inspire its users and support a better community.
Mark Harris, AIA, NCARB
Vice President of Operations, Partner
Mark has over 25 years of experience managing affordable and senior housing projects, with additional work in higher education and corporate architecture. He guides projects from early planning through construction with a thoughtful, client-focused approach. Known for his technical leadership and collaborative style, Mark is committed to achieving project goals through design excellence.
Jackie Wilcox, AIA, LEED AP, IIDA
Director of Interior Design, Partner
Jackie brings over a decade of experience leading and designing high-performing interior environments across a wide range of project types. As Director of Interior Design, she is deeply involved from concept through completion, ensuring the design vision is carried through every detail. Jackie is passionate about how interior spaces influence culture, wellbeing, and connection, and she approaches each project with people at the center.
Craig Carter, AIA, LEED AP BD+C
Public Safety Practice Leader, Partner
Craig has 22 years of experience in architectural design with a specialized focus on public safety facilities. He has worked on more than 70 fire station projects, earning design awards for projects that balance functionality and beauty. Known for his deep understanding of public-sector design and his upbeat, collaborative style, Craig creates thoughtful, data-driven solutions that serve both users and communities.
Daniel Gillen, AIA, LEED AP BD+C
Director of Design (Government), Associate Partner
Daniel is an award-winning architect with over 20 years of experience leading global teams and high-profile projects across cultural, aviation, mixed-use, and residential sectors. His work has been internationally recognized, including projects featured in The New York Times. At BKV, Daniel focuses on government and civic projects, applying his passion for design innovation and sustainability to meaningful public spaces.
Charles Swanson, NCARB
Senior Design Leader, Development Managing Partner
Charles brings deep experience in multifamily development and design, with a strong track record of building high-performing teams and trusted client relationships. He focuses on guiding complex projects through collaborative leadership and strategic problem-solving. Known for fostering a positive, hardworking culture, Charles partners closely with teams and clients to deliver thoughtful, well-executed outcomes.
Kelsey Fissinger
Director of Business Development, Senior Associate
Kelsey brings over six years of experience in business development supporting multifamily, student, mixeduse, senior, and affordable housing projects. She focuses on building strong partnerships, shaping pursuit strategies, and supporting complex development efforts. Known for her research-driven, relationship-focused approach, Kelsey helps teams turn opportunities into lasting client connections.
Mark Jones, AIA, CCS, LEED GREEN ASSOCIATE
Director of Construction Administration, Associate Partner
Mark is an architect with over 30 years of experience designing and delivering affordable housing and a wide range of institutional projects. His work spans new construction and renovations across multifamily housing, long-term care, religious, and educational facilities. With a strong focus on construction administration, Mark brings practical problem-solving and thoughtful coordination to every project.
Ryan Galfi, LEED AP BD+C
Project Manager, Associate Partner
Ryan has 14 years of experience as a project architect and designer working across adaptive reuse, multifamily, mixed-use, residential, and hospitality projects. He manages projects from schematic design through construction, ensuring design intent aligns with client priorities. Ryan is known for his strong technical knowledge, collaborative leadership, and ability to build lasting client relationships.
PORTFOLIO
ATMOSPHERE AT MADISON
Madison, Wisconsin
OVERVIEW
Sophisticated student living blending modern design, comfort, and community connection.
TYPE
Student Living
SIZE
12-story
363 units
681 beds
Atmosphere Madison redefines the student living experience by bringing sophistication, comfort, and community-driven design to the heart of downtown Madison. With its modern amenities, thoughtful interiors, and seamless access to the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, Atmosphere Madison isn’t just a place to live – it’s a place to thrive.
Drawing inspiration from Madison’s vibrant culture and youthful energy, Atmosphere Madison embraces a dynamic aesthetic that reflects both its urban surroundings and the warmth of community. The building’s exterior architecture offers a sleek, contemporary look that harmonizes with Madison’s skyline while exuding a sense of belonging and style. This design prioritizes openness and functionality, with welcoming entryways, natural light, and shared spaces that encourage connection among residents.
Inside, the apartments feature a refined yet cozy palette, balancing muted neutrals with pops of color and texture that infuse the space with life and creativity. Each unit is designed with student lifestyles in mind – providing plenty of storage, functional workspaces, and quality finishes that evoke both sophistication and ease. Common areas foster a sense of camaraderie and shared experience, from the state-of-the-art fitness center and study lounges to thoughtfully curated outdoor spaces that offer a refreshing retreat from campus life.
525 SOUTH WABASH
Chicago, Illinois
OVERVIEW
Mixed-use development enhancing Wabash Avenue with retail, residential, hotel.
TYPE
Market-Rate, Mixed-Use, Hospitality, High-Rise
SIZE
North Building (24 stories with 405 hotel keys, 261 residential units)
South Building (36-story residential building with 516 units)
In collaboration with our project partners, Interforum, Eterra Plus, and Site Design Group, BKV Group is in the planned development phase for a new mixed-use, grocery-anchored retail, residential, and hotel project located at 525 South Wabash Avenue. Conceptually, the building’s aesthetic takes on a prismatic form with the design reflecting a seamless integration with the existing context of architecture and massing in the area, while significantly enhancing the pedestrian experience on Wabash Avenue. The project will generate approximately 400 construction jobs and 200 permanent jobs, while complying with the City of Chicago’s affordable housing, M/WBE, and sustainability requirements.
1407 ON MICHIGAN
Chicago, Illinois
OVERVIEW
LEED Silver high-rise offering luxury rentals, medical offices, parking.
TYPE
Market-Rate, High-Rise, Commercial
SIZE
270,000 SF 15-story 199 units
1407 on Michigan is a 270,000 SF, 15-story high-rise rental property that is built to Type 1A construction. This LEED® Silver certified project is located next to the newly restored Chicago Firehouse Restaurant and replaced a vacant office building once owned by the National Association of Letter Carriers. The tower includes 141 parking spaces on three levels and 40,000 SF of the medical office. The dog-friendly building has a mix of studios, one-, two-, and threebedroom apartments totaling 199 units. These units range from 450 SF studios to 1,700 SF, three-bedroom units. It is also designed as a contemporary upscale rental property featuring top tier unit finishes, floor-to-ceiling glass, and high-end amenities.
THE DEACON
Cincinnati, Ohio
OVERVIEW
Student housing development offering 1–4 bedroom units with private bathrooms.
TYPE
Student Living SIZE
451,800 SF 11-story 357-unit 1029-bed
The Deacon is a student housing development serving the the University of Cincinnati, located on the former Deaconess Hospital site. This project delivered a mid-rise housing development and the renovation of the former parking garage on the property, featuring one- to four-bedroom apartments, with each bedroom having its own bathroom.
ELEVEN40
Chicago,
Illinois
OVERVIEW
Vibrant Wabash Avenue residence blending greenery, art, and modern living.
TYPE
Market-Rate, High-Rise
SIZE
26-story
320 units
22,000 SF of amenity space
Eleven40 is named for its street address on Wabash Avenue in Chicago. The neighborhood abounds with large scale street murals, including one by Chicago Artist Hebru Brantley that was covered when Eleven 40 was built. The vibrance and character and artistic quality of the neighborhood was important for the design team to respect and integrate into the project. The concrete streetscape was something for the design team to purposefully contrast and was viewed as an opportunity for inspiration in both interior and exterior spaces. The city of Chicago’s commitment to creating green spaces throughout the city was a driver to incorporate greenery within all aspects of the project. Eleven 40 is a residence that supports a live, work and play philosophy for all its residents.
Eleven40’s design ethos focuses on developing contrast and layers where the built and natural environments collide. Interior spaces are full of life with greenery that is carried from the outside in and provide a contrast to a modern glass and concrete tower. Amenity spaces are designed to enhance the resident experience and cater to a variety of social activities.
LANDMARK ON GRAND RIVER
East Lansing, Michigan
OVERVIEW
Two rental towers offering student and adult housing with amenities.
TYPE
Student Living, Active Adult, Market-Rate
SIZE
273 student units
91 active adult units
Located across from the Michigan State University campus in downtown East Lansing, East Lansing Apartments consist of two individual rental apartment towers, one for students and one for active adults, both at market rate rental. With 96 active adult apartments, 289 market rate student apartments and amenities including landscaped courtyards, a pool, fitness center, conference and meeting facilities as well as a dedicated dog run, the towers accommodate all residents. The ground floor is proposed as retail space and the street will be converted to a curbless “complete street” to accommodate the existing festivals that are held on the surface lot to create a flexible, active and diverse pedestrian corridor.
YOUNION @ ANN ARBOR
Ann
Arbor, Michigan
OVERVIEW
Lobby refreshed with study, social, and fitness spaces for students.
TYPE
Student Living, Higher Education
SIZE
14,308 SF 10-story
This project includes a complete refresh of the existing lobby space, activating the main entry with areas to gather, study and revive at a new coffee bar. Leasing staff gain visibility and access to residents by spending a portion of their day working out of the lobby area at a leasing perch that doubles as study space for residents after hours and new package lockers were added to handle the increasing need to manage online deliveries to residents resulting in a place where the modern-day student can work, live, and play.
Spaces for Learning and Interaction
The streetscape was activated by adding a new fitness center at grade which provides another new window into the Younioun property for pedestrians. A 10th floor clubroom and fitness space has been transformed into a flexible study lounge which accommodates single students to larger groups. Booth seating, communal tables and varied lounge groupings draw students 24/7.
ARKADIA
Chicago, Illinois
OVERVIEW
West Loop high-rise interiors refreshed with playful, colorful, engaging design.
TYPE
Market-Rate, High-Rise
SIZE
33-story
350 units
26,463 SF of amenity space
Originally built in 2015 and located in the heart of Greektown, the luxury high-rise interiors were lacking the artistic energy and residential warmth prospective West Loop residents desired. The interior refresh of Arkadia was achieved by melding spunky colors, playful patterns, and unexpected use of scale.
A New West Loop Destination
Throughout the fifth-floor amenity spaces, a warm wood-tone floor is contrasted with graphic elements and accents of color. In the party room, a floral rug and rich walnut wood tones are juxtaposed with graphic black and white concrete tiles on both the floor and wall that will endure a beautiful patina over time. This same black and white floor tile is a repeating element in the game room where residents can enjoy a variety of games including billiards, board games, and a giant wall Scrabble game. A colorful, abstract watercolor graphic draws residents to the fireplace lounge and out to the newly outfitted roof deck.
THE FYNN
Elmhurst, Illinois
OVERVIEW
Courtyard-style residential building maximizing outdoor amenities and active street presence.
TYPE
Market-Rate
SIZE
8-story
197 units
Using light gauge steel construction, The Fynn is a market-rate development located on three combined site parcels, strategically designed as a courtyard building facing Chicago’s bustling Addison Street. With above and below-grade parking and landscape amenities, the project features a leasing center, clubroom, outdoor pool, rooftop terrace, and a fully amenitized plaza area.
A Welcoming Streetscape
To minimize the building’s presence along Addison Street and maximize the amount of daylight that would reach the outdoor pool, The Fynn’s entry is located on the northeast corner, with the firstfloor podium diagonally tucked under the north wing, away from the street in an opposing angle to the base. This creates a unique and dynamic composition of angular geometries that call attention to the building’s main entrance, and creates the appearance of a 7-story structure.
CITY CLUB APARTMENTS CINCINNATI
Cincinnati, Ohio
OVERVIEW
Historic Beaux-Arts building transformed into modern apartments with rooftop amenities.
TYPE
Market-Rate, Creative Reuse
SIZE
450,000 SF 26-story 294 units
City Club Apartments Cincinnati is the restoration and adaptive reuse of a historic Cincinnati landmark. Constructed in 1928, this 450,000 SF Beaux Arts building is in the heart of Cincinnati’s downtown business district. The site is located along the Ohio River and was once home to the 340-room Burnet Hotel, which opened in the 1850s. The hotel had a rich history and hosted multiple memorable figures, including Abraham Lincoln. It closed in 1926 and was demolished the same year.
City Club Apartments Cincinnati was designed to maximize the value of the original character of the building by restoring high ceilings and the building’s historic finishes. In an effort to creatively used the building’s utilitarian mechanical plant that was added in the 1980s, BKV Group created a rooftop amenity space that houses the indoor pool, the skyclub, and two outdoor terraces.
CITY CLUB APARTMENTS
LAFAYETTE PARK
Detroit, Michigan
OVERVIEW
Bold interior and exterior redesign offering eclectic, communityfocused resident amenities.
TYPE
Market-Rate, Affordable
SIZE
17-story
192 units
Spearheading the interior design for this project (AOR McIntosh Poris Associates is responsible for the architecture), the design opportunity for this community involved rebranding and transforming a 1970s building to align with the eccentric and inviting City Club Apartments brand. Upgrades included a full façade redesign, refreshed unit finishes, and new environments including an outdoor pool deck, Zen garden, amenity spaces, fitness center, clubroom, co-working area, business center, lobby, and leasing office.
The aesthetic is extremely bold and offers an eclectic, stand-out design using eccentric colors, patterns, and textures. The resident social spaces allow renters to engage with their community with this development offering affordable housing options, in addition to market-rate units.
The resulting building features four different unit finish packages, providing the renter with options that appeal to their individual tastes. The outdoor amenity spaces are a huge draw for residents with areas for swimming, lounging, dining, relaxing, meditating, and entertaining all incorporated into the final product. Plus, they get a unique experience with the new exterior façade being a nod to green foliage creating an urban treehouse, and the interior amenity spaces offering art and accessories that tie to the neighborhood and local Detroit history.
CITY CLUB APARTMENTS
CBD DETROIT
Detroit, Michigan
OVERVIEW
Class A residential with bold design, amenities, and community activation.
TYPE Market-Rate
SIZE
275,000 SF
288 Units
Developed as a Class A residential building in downtown Detroit CBD, this eye-catching development creates a custom retail, restaurant, and residential experience to enhance the quality of neighborhood, and bring a new nexus point in a gateway urban corridor. A market-rate property that looks like no other in the Detroit market, the design features an indoor/outdoor amenity package that allows residents to have a “one-stop shop” experience by providing every service they would need in one location, packaged in a structure that honors the history of the site and city and brings a modern interpretation to the downtown area.
This project’s amenity package supports these pillars and provides the resident with a unique experience they can only find at a City Club property. The aesthetic is extremely bold and offers an eclectic, stand-out design using eccentric colors, patterns, and textures. The resident social spaces allow renters to engage with their community and connect through common interests such as a curated retail and restaurant experience providing amenities to residents, but also activating and engaging the surrounding community. In addition, an internal courtyard amenity ties directly to the indoor pool and clubroom for a seamless social experience.
CITY CLUB APARTMENTS MIDTOWN DETROIT
Detroit, Michigan
OVERVIEW
Midtown apartments with diverse units, resort amenities, and community spaces.
TYPE
Market-Rate
SIZE
357 units
City Club Apartments Midtown will offer a range of apartments including studios, convertibles, 1-bed, 2-bed, and 3-bed units. 20% of the apartment units in the proposed development will be affordable. The proposed development will also include four town house units along Eliot Street and upgraded penthouse units on the top floors of both the mid-rise and high-rise apartment towers. The proposed development will feature resort-class amenities, including a lobby, lounge, and library, Bark Park, Sky Club with rooftop pool and outdoor grilling stations, 24/7 Whole Body Fitness, wellness room, movie theatre, business center and conference room, Zen Garden, and international design with local art.
City Club Apartments Midtown will offer three unique outdoor spaces that provide amenities for residents, commercial tenants, and visitors, while also engaging the surrounding community. Among them is pocket park at the southeast corner of Mack and Woodward Avenues, featuring a splash fountain, landscaping, and a digital wall designed to highlight community attractions and events such as the Motown Museum, the Detroit Zoo, MOCAD, and the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History.
400 ROSE APARTMENTS
Kalamazoo, Michigan
OVERVIEW
Contemporary market-rate apartments with retail, amenities, and active streetscape.
TYPE
Market-Rate
SIZE
169,329 SF
135 units
Located in downtown Kalamazoo, Michigan, this new marketrate residential development brings a contemporary approach to a traditional material and color palette. The project is pursuing LEED for Homes certification and consists of a four-story wood structure containing 135 units totaling 169,329 SF. Residential units range from studios to 2-bedroom apartments, with first floor units activating the streetscape with direct entrances to each unit.
A 2,500 SF retail space is planned for the Lovell and Rose Street corner, along with resident amenities that include a fitness center, roof terrace, and an open club room and lobby. This creates a spacious entrance sequence and connects directly to the corner retail space. Underground parking is also provided along with a surface parking lot, and individual parking spaces in an above ground enclosure.
LAKEVIEW CITY APARTMENTS
Chicago, Illinois
OVERVIEW
Lakefront high-rise offering modern apartments with resort-style resident amenities.
TYPE Market-Rate
SIZE
14-story
350 units
Lakeview City Apartments is a proposed 14-story market rate apartment building planned for North Lakeshore Drive. The site is located on the corner of Lakeshore Drive and Addison Avenue, and is being developed to fill in an existing vacant site on the Lake Michigan shoreline west of Lake Shore Drive. Lakeview City Apartments is being designed to include roughly 350 units, within a pre-cast bearing wall structure. The building’s parking requirements are being met with an integrated parking ramp located on the site’s southwest building corner so as to hide it from public view, and includes an integrated podium design to hide it even further from the surrounding resident’s view.
Lakeview City Apartments is a development with its resident’s lifestyle in mind. Smaller apartments and resort style amenities encourage residents to interact with each other more often, creating a welcoming environment for the young professional target market. This project is designed so as to minimally obstruct the lake views of the existing buildings, but also opens up on the courtyard to maximize apartment views to Lake Michigan for its residents as well.
ANN ARBOR CITY APARTMENTS
Ann Arbor, Michigan
OVERVIEW
Downtown mid-rise combining luxury apartments with integrated municipal parking structure.
TYPE
Market-Rate
SIZE
156 units
Ann Arbor City Apartments is the first mid-rise luxury apartment and municipal parking ramp in downtown Ann Arbor, setting a new standard for creative architectural and structural design. The team employed an economical alternative to concrete—a steel stud system with composite floors—to achieve greater building height and density.
This sustainable, NAHB Green-certified development rises seven stories and includes 156 residential units, leasing offices, and amenity spaces. Residents enjoy access to a green courtyard terrace, a rooftop clubroom, and a skypark with sweeping views of downtown. The housing component sits above a new, four-level cast-in-place concrete municipal parking podium that provides 244 public stalls on a sloped 0.57-acre site.
The design aesthetic honors Ann Arbor’s distinctive downtown character through a classic composition of base, middle, and top. A carefully selected color palette reflects the vibrant tones found along downtown streets, while the overall design evokes the refined elegance of a contemporary pinstriped suit. The façade’s rhythmic window pattern establishes visual order, and the base is articulated with smooth and rock-faced CMU bands complemented by ornamental open grillwork to enhance the pedestrian experience.
MORROW PARK CITY APARTMENTS
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
OVERVIEW
Bloomfield apartments blending industrial design, landscaped courtyard, and modern amenities.
TYPE Market-Rate
SIZE
272,192 SF 6-story 210 units
Morrow Park City Apartments is located in Pittsburgh’s Bloomfield neighborhood on the site of a former auto dealership. The six-story, U-shaped building centers around a landscaped courtyard, with a modern design inspired by the mosaic of Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods—particularly Bloomfield’s blend of shops, distinctive homes, and churches, as well as its proximity to the historic automobile row and its legacy of craftsmanship and machinery.
The exterior features an organic composition of smooth and corrugated metal, brick, steel, cement board, and glass—woven together to express a refined industrial character. Inside, the design continues this contemporary industrial theme, offering a dynamic living environment within an established neighborhood rich with history and sense of place.
The development includes 210 residential units within a podium structure of five stories of wood-frame construction over one level of precast concrete. Two levels of underground precast parking provide 177 stalls, supported by a perimeter secant foundation system.
Amenities include a boutique-style lobby, business center, clubroom, fitness center, sky lounge, and a vibrant courtyard featuring a bar, firepit, cabanas, water features, a zen garden, lap pool, and a sundeck/green roof.
SOUTHSIDE WORKS CITY APARTMENTS
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
OVERVIEW
Luxury apartments blending modern Art Deco design with extensive amenities.
TYPE
Market-Rate
SIZE
240,000 SF
262 units
Once an active steel milling neighborhood, SouthSide - located between the storied Carson Street and the Monongahela River - has grown into an upscale, eclectic, and vibrant community with retail, housing, theaters, offices, and miles of recreation space along the river.
The design of the Southside Works City Apartments captures the energy of this area by introducing luxury rental lifestyle apartments with a modern interpretation of Art Deco architecture. The design features a contemporary, streamlined and forward-thinking approach to today’s housing needs with a wide variety of dwelling choices, from micro (“nano”) units to walk-ups, flats, and multi-story duplexes.
The community is a 262-unit, six-story, slab-on-grade podium building. It is made up of five levels of wood frame construction, over a podium level of 8” precast plank bearing on 8” CMU bearing walls. The site includes a freestanding parking garage, also designed by BKV Group.
Amenities include a boutique hotel-style lobby and clubroom, concierge and leasing, fitness center, and indoor pool. Residents will also enjoy a beautiful outdoor courtyard with bar, firepit, cabanas, water features, movie wall and ampitheatre, and zen garden. The building is an NAHB Green Building.
SCRANTON PENINSULA
Cleveland, Ohio
OVERVIEW
Mixed-use riverfront development with residential buildings, parking, and trails.
TYPE
Market-Rate
SIZE
The phased development will include 316 total units and 458 parking spaces:
BUILDING A - 5 STORY MULTI-FAMILY (172,139 SF)
BUILDING B - 5 STORY MULTI-FAMILY (172,449 SF)
BUILDING C - 3 STORY APARTMENTS (9,615 SF)
BUILDING D - 3 STORY APARTMENTS (4,526 SF)
BUILDING E - PARKING GARAGE (2 LEVELS)
BUILDING F - 3 STORY APARTMENTS (4,526 SF)
Scranton Peninsula is a mixed-use development on a 7.4 acre site that will include five new residential buildings supported by a two-level parking garage. Wrapped by the Cuyahoga River on three sides, the location features sweeping views of the water and downtown Cleveland. The area is primed for redevelopment with proposed R&D offices and new brewery on adjacent sites. The location offers access to multiple waking paths including the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail and the Centennial Trail.
THE DISTRICT
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
OVERVIEW
Riverside residential development with luxury units, amenities, and interactive streetscape.
TYPE
Market-Rate
SIZE
647,035 SF
5 and 6 stories 442 units
Located along the Allegheny River in Pittsburgh, The District Apartments is a vibrant two-phase residential development that brings contemporary living to the city’s riverfront. Phase II encompasses two buildings - Bridge and Middle - totaling over 647,000 square feet. Bridge is a six-story, 178-unit structure wrapped around a 544-space pre-cast parking garage, while Middle is a five-story, 264-unit building centered around a resort-style pool and landscaped courtyard.
The completed community offers a diverse mix of high-end studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, including two-story townhomes and penthouse lofts with panoramic views of the downtown skyline. Residents enjoy direct-access parking, interior and exterior gathering areas, and extensive amenities such as a rooftop lounge with private dining, fitness and yoga studios, coworking and conference spaces, and pet-friendly features including a dog walk and care areas.
Designed to connect with the surrounding environment, The District enhances the riverfront experience with a bike and kayak shop, dedicated storage, an active river walk, and an engaging streetscape along Waterfront Drive.
THE WATERMARK AT MORRISON RANCH
Gilbert, Arizona
OVERVIEW
Senior living facility with assisted living, memory care, and amenities.
TYPE
Senior Living (AL, MC)
SIZE
98,956 SF 2-story
115 units
83 Assisted Living units
32 Memory Care units
Quail Park at Morrison Ranch Senior Living Facility is a two-story building consisting of 32 memory care units and 83 assisted living units, along with supporting services and ample buildings amenities. The site is located within the Morrison Ranch area in Gilbert, Arizona.
The architecture is inspired by the regional context with Quail Park expressing the look and feel of a large ranch home. The building entry is clearly identified by the porte-cochere and centralized entry, with the site featuring well-appointed landscaping such as fountains, walking paths, and shade structures.
ANTHOLOGY OF SIMSBURY
Simsbury, Connecticut
OVERVIEW
Assisted living and memory care community inspired by New England manor.
TYPE
Senior Living (AL, MC)
SIZE
121,000 SF
3-story
120 units
80 Assisted Living units
40 Memory Care units
Anthology of Simsbury project features 80 assisted living units and 40 memory care units for a building total of 120 units. The project site is part of a larger master development called The Greenbriar Development. The three-story building design was inspired by a Northeast rural New England manor and Talcott Mountain to the East.
The three story building is defined by its expressed bays and large steep gables. Additionally, the building features a prominent point of entry and porte cochere, white trimmed bays filled with glass at the dining rooms and at the front of the building, cast stone chimneys, a large outdoor courtyard to the west, and a memory care enclosed courtyard to the north. The white bay on the northeast of the building provides residents outdoor access at level 3 for views of the mountain, Heublein Tower, and the Farmington River.
A protype was developed and utilized for two similar sites near Hartford Connecticut. The building located in Simsbury led the design concept. The design was then slightly modified to fit the Farmington site and context.
FRIDLEY CIVIC CAMPUSFIRE STATION
Fridley, Minnesota
OVERVIEW
Integrated civic campus featuring fire, police, city hall, and public works.
TYPE
Fire, Law Enforcement, City Halls, EMS, Public Works
SIZE
184,300 SF
Across University Avenue from the City of Fridley’s Community Park, and directly west of the wooded trails of Locke Park and Rice Creek, stands the recently completed Fridley Civic Campus. It features a new Fire Station, Police Station, City Hall, Public Works, organized around a central water feature and shared plaza. The building’s design responds to its urban and natural surroundings with a palate of materials that are both elemental and durable.
The fire station has administrative offices on the first floor and bunk rooms, a kitchen, and a dayroom for duty crews on the second floor. A fire pole provides direct access to the apparatus bays. There are dual three-bay drive-through apparatus rooms. In between these bays is the watch room and other apparatus bay support spaces. Above the support functions is a large room for mazes and props to provide on-site training opportunities.
SPRINGFIELD FIRE STATION #4
Springfield, Missouri
OVERVIEW
Modernized fire stations with gender-neutral, safe, and functional facilities.
TYPE
Fire
SIZE
7,010 SF
2 drive-through bays
6 bunks
The City of Springfield has twelve fire stations ranging from small mid-century single-company buildings to more recent facilities with large bays and community rooms. None of them were satisfying all of the functional demands of a modern fire station, and the city embarked on a project to improve two and build two more. BKV Group teamed with local architect Esterly Schneider to design replacements for stations No. 4 and No. 7, the oldest in the city, and two new stations in underserved areas of town.
BKV Group toured several of the current stations to learn about the city’s standards and preferred equipment. A survey of the firefighters identified the items they want to repeat from the current stations and which items they would like to avoid in the new stations. Detailed space standards allowed the city to visualize the building programs and confirm that the proper equipment and furniture fit in the space allotted. The stations will include gender-neutral facilities, lactation rooms, appropriate decontamination spaces, separate contaminated and clean zones, and physical conditioning spaces.
SPRINGFIELD FIRE STATION #13
Springfield, Missouri
OVERVIEW
New LEED Silver fire station with modern, community-focused facilities.
TYPE
Fire
SIZE
6,380 SF
2 drive-through bays
4 bunks
Like with Fire Station #4, the City of Springfield decided to build its first new fire stations in years. This fire station will contain gender-neutral facilities, lactation rooms, appropriate decontamination spaces, separate contaminated and clean zones, and physical conditioning spaces.
A Thorough Pre-Design Process
Fire Station #13 is located on Route 66 down the street from one of the City’s first fire stations. The tight site accommodates a two-bay drive-through fire station with living quarters and bunk rooms above the bays. Two fire poles speed response, a roof patio over the support spaces, and a new tower pays homage to the former College Avenue Station.
Community-Sensitive, Environmentally-Sound
Originally developed as a two-story station to fit on a narrow site, a drastic local increase in construction costs forced the redesign of Station 4 as a single-story scheme, thus affecting the design of Station 13. The resulting design narrowed the apparatus bays slightly and moved closer to the neighboring property to the north, but bid within the City’s budget. The two-bay design uses brick and cast stone for longevity and includes a taller parapet at the public entry to aid wayfinding for the public. The Station will be LEED Silver in compliance with City statute.
STREAMWOOD VILLAGE HALL & PUBLIC WORKS RENOVATION
Streamwood, Illinois
OVERVIEW
Comprehensive facility study and phased renovations enhancing efficiency and service.
TYPE
City Hall, Public Works
SIZE
4,630 SF Remodel
BKV Group performed a space needs analysis and space utilization master plan for the Village of Streamwood, evaluating the layout, efficiency, code compliance, security, etc. of the Village Hall, Police Station, three Fire Stations, the Community Development Garage, and the Public Works facility. BKV Group then worked with each department to discuss their workflows and overall space needs, now and in the future.
Following the Study, BKV Group was asked to design the recommended changes to Village Hall and part of the work recommended for Public Works. In addition, the Village requested asbestos testing and work on the exterior of the Village Hall. The design team documented the existing conditions and worked closely with the Village to identify the exact scope of work necessary. Detailed 3D models were created to walk the Village Board members through the customer service experience and to allow staff to look around and understand where cash drawers, monitors, card readers, forms, etc. would be located. Construction of the project was accomplished in six phases in order to not interrupt operations for the public.
ALPENA COUNTY JAIL
Alpena, Michigan
OVERVIEW
New 108-bed jail and sheriff’s office maximizing budget efficiency.
TYPE
Justice Center
SIZE
26,024 SF
The new $9.7M Sheriff’s Office and Jail Facility is located east of Alpena County Airport. The county’s initial pre-design team lacked experience, leading to a 40% budget underestimation and an error in the space program, omitting required day-room spaces. A bond referendum was passed with this misinformation. Our task was to maximize the budget while delivering a facility that met voter expectations.
The 94-bed jail includes 11 separations, a special unit (12 beds), max and general population units for men and women, trustee dorms, and flexible housing. The intake center features a sallyport, officer work area, detox and holding cells, and a padded cell. Jail support areas include medical, kitchen, and laundry facilities. The Sheriff’s Office houses administration, training, evidence processing, patrol work areas, locker rooms, and a staff break area.
BUREAU COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE & JAIL
Princeton, Illinois
OVERVIEW
Existing building reused and expanded for cost-effective, modern sheriff’s facility.
TYPE
Justice Center
SIZE
37,100 GSF
21,000 SF remodel
Bureau County is a rural west-central county with a population of about 33,000 people. The current Sheriff’s Office and Jail was completed in 1973 with a capacity of 15-beds, and double bunking those cells in the 1980’s expanded the housing capacity to 33 persons in-custody. Studies dating back to 2007 noted the jail has become overcrowded, too small and unsafe, and fails to comply with a number of state and national standards. Bureau County has since looked at various options for expansion on-site – when a very great opportunity presented itself to the county and the county took advantage. The 21,000 SF former Bureau County Republican office and production center, including office furniture, was purchased for $37/SF.
BKV Group completed a study to show how the existing facility could be reused for a sheriff’s office, women’s housing and housing support spaces including a kitchen and laundry, and add a 100-bed male housing addition. The reuse of and remodeling of the building with an addition provided a cost savings of more than $3.3M versus new construction. The building was purchased using funds from a sale of a previous county owned nursing home, however, a referendum to design and construct the new Jail and Sheriff’s Office project was necessary.
