Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service Inc.

Award of Merit: Commercial (Small)

Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service Inc. had outgrown its long-time headquarters in Elmhurst, Ill.

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Space was tight, and the more than 20-year-old building was becoming obsolete due to the evolving technology in a wired era.

The development plan called for a headquarters that serves as a real estate asset. Further goals included delivering the structure on time, within budget and safely.

Superior's building incorporates sustainable design elements, including an under-floor air-distribution system that maximizes employee comfort while minimizing cost. Building products made from renewable resources from within a 500-mi. radius were purchased to reduce the consumption of gas, including glass, precast concrete and elevators.

Start, Stop, Start Again

Superior had started-and then halted-its new headquarters two years prior to the final work, and the structural skeleton had been partially completed. The company did away with its existing design and implemented a new design.

Incorporating the framework saved money and expedited construction. The primary program-management challenge was constructing a building within the completed structural skeleton.

The precast concrete and glass building incorporates an architectural blade with the company name.

Although the building is primarily Superior's headquarters, it also incorporates an ambulance storage and car wash. The entry is located on the lower level of the building's side and rear to preserve Superior's image.

Acquiring construction materials proved more challenging than expected due to Hurricane Katrina-related shortages.

Long-term relationships of the program manager and general contractor helped expedite deliveries so the building could be completed on time.

Jury Comments: "It is a sharp-looking building and makes a valid design comment, though it is a little shallow in detail. The building is clean and has clarity."

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