One Superior, Chicago IL
We had a great time with Bernard (Bernie) Jacobs on Wednesday. As one of the principals at Jacobs / Ryan Associates (landscape architects) he is always pushing the envelope of what has been done, versus what can be done! We love meeting with him and working on projects with such an inspiring mind. We are pleased to be working on a current project with his team, and starting the process of designing another one.
The meeting reminded me of the holiday card we received from him a few months back. On the cover: a photo of one of the projects we worked on with him, located at One West Superior here in Chicago.
Along with one of Bernie’s right hand men, Erik Dayrell, and the crews of Landek Specialties, and CountrySide Industries, we teamed up to re-invent a tired space. Already known as one of the city’s “hot spot” summer decks, the buildings new owners wanted to revitalize their image and provide a more inviting deck for their clients.
First Approached regarding the use of energy efficient fiber optic lighting, we quickly saw the need to switch gears to LED as we progressed into the design phase of the project.
Using uRay LED lighting, we helped create a “champagne like” effect by lighting “bubbles” from within the stainless steel columns provided by Ed Fernandez of Architectural Objects. Many of you have seen or used our WaterProof uRay LED. Well, this is a great example of what can be accomplished using a fantastic, budget friendly product.
We took this as a great opportunity to introduce the entire team to the newest “Warm White” landscape LED’s by SPJ Lighting. They provided amazingly warm light output unheard of by LED’s in the past! The end result is a stunning touch of light on the beautiful plants and trees among the deck.
All said, the deck turned out to be a newly invigorated space with energy efficient LED lighting, fantastic green roof space, amazing woodwork, and a new reputation – A reputation as “The Spot” for a great summer day by the pool, or a relaxing yoga class under the pergola. In fact, the building has increased its occupancy rate from 80% to 100% with a waiting list…all because of the deck! Well, we all like to think so anyhow.
The best part of the entire project was not the fact that we knocked it out in less than 3 months and met the Memorial Day deadline, or that the owners now have an energy efficient mood lit deck. The best part, is that this design won Jacobs Ryan a Merit Award given by the
Illinois Society of Landscape Architects – Great design Bernie!
Pictures say a thousand words, so touch on their link at JacobsRyan.com and have a look at what Bernie and his team had to say about the project, (they are much more eloquent than I am!) When your done having a look at their site and all their wonderful work, give them a call and schedule an appointment to get going on your next project.
Special Thanks:
I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the team that made it happen:
Without a doubt, the stars of the project are Landek Specialties. They helped design and build Three stainless steel, ipe and painted steel pergolas, and laid the ground work with a floating stone and wood deck. The work these guys complete is not only spot on with detail, but their team is the most efficient I have ever had the pleasure to work with. Simply put: Kevin Newman was a visionary, and Eric Ruud is a consummate pro – the best in the biz! Our thoughts go out to the The Landek Team in 2010.
Ed Hernandez of Architectural Objects for the beautiful work and hand made stainless steel details on the columns, and the fire pits. An artist for sure.
Arch-Objects.com
Countryside Industries jumped on providing stunning plant life under the constraints of an amazingly short time-line. What a great turn out. Thanks to Lee Keenan, Joe Davito, and their entire company for making the deck spring to life.
CountrySideIndustries.com
Electrical work provided by Block Electric. The behind the scenes power for the entire project, anything we asked for, they happily provided. Thanks to Michael Block and especially to Bill Kuda for his dedication to the project.
BlockElectric.com
Enough of the mushy stuff already, give us a call so this team magicians can get to work designing and installing your next remodel or new construction project!