Aria Group: Public Interest Design
A House in Austin – photos by Travis Vannoy
Aria Group couldn’t be more proud to highlight two socially responsible projects as we start out hopeful for the new year. These projects showcase Aria Group’s continued commitment to helping in our communities through providing thoughtful design solutions pro bono.
If 2020 taught us anything, it is that spending time with family is one of the most important parts of life. Aria Group was fortunate to work with the community organization, A House in Austin. A House in Austin’s mission is to nurture bonds for healthy families and bright futures. In hopes of integrating into the neighborhood’s fabric, the organization purchased a Victorian-era house in need of renovations in the Austin neighborhood on Chicago’s West Side. Aria Group assisted with bringing the house up to zoning, accessibility and rehabilitation codes appropriate for their programs. Creating a house into a place of business and gathering provided some challenges aesthetically as well. We worked to maintain the character of the house with every decision, but practical elements, especially for accessibility, needed to be implemented into the project. Along with Himelick Construction, Systems Design Group, Inc., CE Anderson and Associates and Robin Titus Designs, the team created an inviting and secure space for the families. Functional and inspiring design played a key role to help empower parents to shape their children’s futures.
Sarah’s Inn – photos by Orenthal Jeffries
Another lesson learned from 2020 is that every day is a gift and should not be taken for granted. We worked hand in hand to create a safe, private and comfortable design for the new headquarters for Sarah’s Inn. Sarah’s Inn’s mission is to provide comprehensive services for families affected by domestic violence – giving families the support they need to find safety, rebuild their lives, and heal. They were in need of expansion to furnish a secure location for education, counseling and group events. The team included Radix Construction Services, Systems Design Group, Inc., and TGRWA, LLC. All worked to redesign an old electrical union training facility into a warm and inviting space for Sarah’s Inn to continue their mission.
Aria Group was honored to be a part of these exciting socially responsible projects – working to better individuals, families and communities.
