Entrance Canopy by Duo-Gard Creates Focal Point for Renovation

A new owner, a new name and a new look have given a new lease on life to a 16-year-old corporate campus in the Village of Deer Park, north of Chicago. Constructed in 2001 , The Reserve at Deer Park sits on 58 tree-lined acres filled with prairie grass, wetlands and rolling hills. Visitors – including prospective tenants – are greeted by a redesigned entrance featuring a striking translucent canopy. The canopy is part of a major renovation for the seven-story building. It was designed by Dan Zuk, Director of Architecture-Chicago, at GMA Architects in Downers Grove. Measuring 31 feet wide by 28 feet deep, it tapers slightly to form a fan-shaped cover. Engineered by Duo-Gard, it features glazing of 25mm translucent multiwall polycarbonate in a clear tint. “The canopy provides a new focal point that defines the entry,” says Zuk. “Such definition is critical for the building and will add to its success in attracting tenants.” His comment is echoed by Ross Allen, project manager at Arco/Murray in Downers Grove, the design/build/contractor for The Reserve’s renovations. “In order to attract high-credit tenants for this Class A building, significant upgrades and restructuring of the building had to take place,” he says. Polycarbonate was the final choice, but not the first for the canopy, says Zuk. “We considered glass. But that was heavy and would have needed high maintenance. And the cost put it outside the budget.”