GEMS World Academy

The GEMS World Academy Chicago stacks 10 floors of state-of-the-art learning spaces into an efficient, stepped footprint. The school is located in the downtown Lakeshore East neighborhood, characterized by high-rise buildings. The high-rise lower school occupies a slim site at the corner of Lakeshore East Park and supports 650 elementary age students. 

  With its playful facade, the building provides an aesthetic contrast within the context of an otherwise neutral neighborhood. Made of gray aluminum plates punctuated by primary colors, the curtainwall responds to the varied internal program elements and the school’s busy, day-to-day functions activate the surrounding area. Inside, classrooms are organized along the south side of single loaded corridors to maximize exposure to natural light and city and park views.

Throughout the school, smart furnishings, colorful finishes, and multiple textures keep the spaces flexible and welcoming. Easily movable furniture and the thoughtful integration of touchscreen LCDs support varied learning activities. The cafeteria and adjacent outdoor terrace provide a vibrant indoor/outdoor hub. The divisible multi-purpose room accommodates athletics and assemblies. On the rooftop, students access an outdoor playground, looking out over Chicago.

GEMS World Academy Lower School Chicago, USA
Program: school
Architect: bKL Architecture
Structural engineer: Halvorson and Partners
MEP/FP engineer: WMA Consulting Engineers
Civil engineer: Mackie Consultants
Landscape: Wolff Landscape Architecture
Lighting: Archiluce International
Acoustical: Shen Milsom Wilke
General contractor: Power Construction Company
Area: 7,700 sqm
Completion: 2014