Scott Air Force Base 126th Squadron Operations

Built in 1990, the building was not designed to meet the enhanced mission of the Air National Guard (ANG) initiated in 2001. The conversion of ANG forces from strategic reserve to a tactical enabler role necessitated the requirement for efficient, accessible, co-located work areas. Changes in this mission have increased the reserve population and require more plan flexibility. The ANG’s current layout did not provide enough adequate room for life-support equipment / spaces and made pre-flight, in-flight and post-flight execution practices, and generation of aircrew and aircraft resources more complicated.

Our design team worked with the 126th to reconfigure and transform their existing building into a workplace that reflects their contemporary attitude and mission. The design included an open floor plan with office areas to support workspaces divided by demountable furniture system partitions. This created a better flow and function for the building, therefore aiding in mission success. Daylighting and updated interior finishes provide a pleasant workspace and conduct greater soldier satisfaction.

Renovations to the exterior envelope, windows, roof as well as energy efficient upgrades to the building systems, improved the overall energy performance. A geothermal HVAC system was utilized to help the project achieve a LEED Silver Certification. A major retrofit of the structure was also undertaken to achieve current seismic code compliance.

To minimize the impact to the Unit’s mission, the design was constructed in phases. A portion of the facility remained in operation 24 hours a day/seven days a week and could not be impacted by construction. Temporary relocation for staff was provided for those affected during construction.