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Aug 22
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Meet the 2023 Interns

By Industry Insights

Meet Our Construction
Management Interns

An internship with Summit Design + Build is a great opportunity for college students to learn first-hand what a career in construction is all about! Our internship program is designed so that our interns gain the most valuable, impactful experience while having fun, in the hopes that they come back to grow their careers with us. From day one our interns are immersed in our active construction projects, working side-by-side with our project managers, project engineers, estimators, and superintendents. Over the course of their internship, Summit Design + Build interns also get to conduct multiple site visits followed by intern team lunches at Chicago’s hottest spots. Interns also participate in intern happy hours, lunch and learns, Summit social gatherings and Summit team-building events!

Get to Know Our Interns

We sat down with three of our interns to get an inside scoop of what it is like to intern at Summit Design + Build. We spoke with Sahil Patel (Majoring in Civil Engineering with a primary in Construction Management at the University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign), Painton Jeppe (Majoring in International Affairs at University of Colorado-Boulder), and Jake Duerr (Majoring in Finance and minoring in Engineering Technology at the University of Dayton), who is back for his third consecutive summer! We sat down with our interns to learn what intrigues them about the construction industry, what makes them thrive, and what their future construction goals are.

 

Why did you decide to intern with Summit Design + Build?

Sahil: “I enjoyed speaking with the recruiters at the career fair and their portfolio of impressive projects caught my attention. I wanted to work for a smaller general contractor who focused on their interns, and Summit does exactly that. I know that interning with Summit would provide me with invaluable hands-on experience and the opportunity to work with a team of industry experts.”

Painton: “Summit is a smaller general contractor that is doing big gc work. Also, it is a very inclusive and encouraging work environment.”

Jake: “What made me decide to intern with SDB was the experience I have gained from my previous internships and the people I have been able to work with. Each summer I have learned something new whether that be working in Cost Estimation, Pre-Construction, or On-going Construction.”

What are you looking forward to most during this internship?

Sahil: “During this internship, I am most excited about collaborating with professionals who share my passion for sustainable design. I look forward to being involved in the entire construction process, from initial concepts to the final stages of project completion. I am eager to learn from the best in the field and gain practical knowledge that will enhance my skills as a project engineer.”

Jake: “What I am looking forward to most during this internship is to learn more about the different aspects/details that go into each specific trade.”

Painton: “To be working on-site and seeing the projects develop from start to finish.”

What has been your favorite thing so far?

Sahil: “One of the coolest things about this internship has been the chance to visit construction sites and witness the transformation of architectural plans into physical structures. It’s truly amazing to see how each detail and decision made during the design phase comes to life. I find it incredibly fulfilling to be a part of such a dynamic and creative process.”

Painton: “To be working on-site and seeing the projects develop from start to finish.”

Jake: “My favorite thing about my internship has been the ability to be on-site for the 718 Main St project multiple times a week.”

Favorite Chicago sports team?

Sahil: “Chicago Bulls”

Painton: “Cubbies”

Jake: “Chicago Bears”

Best part of Chicago Summer?

Sahil: “The best thing about Chicago summer is the outdoor festivals, concerts, and beach days along Lake Michigan. The warm weather is probably my favorite since it allows me to explore the city, enjoy outdoor dining, and go biking along the Lake Shore.”

Painton: “Spending time at the beach.”

Jake: “My favorite thing about Chicago Summer is attending the outdoor festivals/concerts that are going on throughout the city.”

Favorite Chicago pizza?

Sahil: “Giordano’s”

Painton: “Barnaby’s”

Jake: “Phil’s Pizza”

What is your go-to joke?

Sahil: “Why don’t scientists trust atoms? Because they make up everything!”

Painton: “What’s a dentist’s favorite time of day? Tooth Hurty”

Jake: “How do you make a tissue dance? Put a little boogie in it.”

Favorite TV show of all time?

Sahil: “My all-time favorite TV show would have to be Breaking Bad., The compelling storyline, complex characters, and gripping suspense make it a truly unforgettable series.”

Painton: “Avatar the Last Airbender, or Parks and Recreation”

Jake: “Peaky Blinders”

If you could be on-site of any construction project, what would it be?

Sahil: “If given the opportunity, I would love to be on-site for the construction of a futuristic sustainable skyscraper. It would be amazing to be part of a project that pushes the boundaries of sustainable design and incorporates advanced technologies.”

Painton: “Binghatti Tower. The new Jacob and Co luxury apartment complex in Dubai. It’s going to be the tallest residential building in the world.”

Jake: “The one construction project I would want to be on-site for is the new Chicago Bears Stadium at the old Arlington Race Track.”

What has surprised you the most working at Summit?

Sahil: “One of the most surprising aspects of working at Summit is the company’s unwavering commitment to fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment. I love how attentive they are to the interns, making sure we truly want to be here and getting the most out of our time. There is a genuine dedication to nurturing talent within the organization.”

Painton: “How everyone in the office has made it a priority to teach me how each one of my tasks with help/affect the actual projects.”

What are your future goals/aspirations?

Sahil: “My future goals revolve around becoming an accomplished project engineer who combines sustainable practices with innovative design concepts. Long term, hopefully open up a civil engineering firm alongside some of my friends.”

Painton: “Travel the world, start a family, and eventually retire and open a bar-restaurant.”

Jake: “My future goals/aspirations are to gain as much experience in the construction industry as possible, improve on certain skills in the workplace I find myself weakest at, and eventually have the chance to work on projects that revolve around professional sport’s stadiums/arenas.”

Aug 15
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Summit Breaks Ground with Farm Foundation

By News

Summit Breaks Ground on Farm Foundation’s New Innovation and Education Center

Summit Design + Build recently broke ground on Farm Foundation’s Innovation and Education Center, located on the Casey family farm in Libertyville, IL. With a deep family history situated on this property, Farm Foundation pledges to keep the Casey name living in the form of educating people about the importance of agricultural systems in our country, as well as inspiring the next generation to create a lasting effect on our planet.

The project was officially kicked off with a ceremonial groundbreaking on Friday, August 18th attended by Tony Casey & Dr. Annette Barnes, Casey Family representatives, Adam Miller, President, Summit Design + Build, Todd Price, Vice President, Farm Foundation IEC, Shari Rogge-Fidler, President & CEO, Farm Foundation,  Dan Basse, Chairman, Farm Foundation Board of Directors, Brad Schneider, Congressman of Illinois 10th district, Donna Johnson, Mayor of Libertyville, and Kurt Koffey, Vice President, Case IH North America, as well as members of the community.

This 14-acre campus will be home to a modern barn structure that will feature a media room, demonstration kitchen, and office space, as well as house various educational programs aimed to address the critical issues shaping the future of agriculture and our food systems.

Kahler Slater is serving as the project architect, and JLL is serving as the property manager. Project completion is expected in Summer 2024.

About Farm Foundation

Farm Foundation is an accelerator of practical solutions for agriculture. They are a 501(c)(3) non-profit working across the food and ag value chain to build momentum behind meaningful solutions to some of the most important challenges facing farmers and, by extension, the industry as a whole. Their fiercely nonpartisan approach means they are uniquely able to address issues with objectivity and inclusivity, bringing together diverse perspectives from influential people and organizations to discuss and develop solutions. They support food and agriculture by meeting challenges with a relentless dedication to ensuring all the right stakeholders are involved and engaged in building something for the greater good—providing an agenda-free zone to achieve a shared vision for a better future for food and ag. Farm Foundation moves with speed, purpose and agility to make the greatest impact in the most important areas in the shortest amount of time.

Jul 24
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People Thrive @ 1111 W Addison.

By Industry Insights

Summit Design + Build: Building Spaces Where People Thrive

People Thrive @ 1111 W Addison

Summit’s key proposition is “building spaces where people & business thrive.” We know the buildings we have erected tell part of our story, but we want to dive deeper into how our spaces positively impact those who use them.

As the second in Summit’s series of blogs that explore how our spaces are enriching the lives of those who occupy them, we are focusing on 1111 W Addison. This recent project near the intersection of Addison and Clark Street features a 59,000-square-foot, four-story, ground-up commercial construction project with retail on the ground floor and a fitness and bouldering center on the third and fourth floors.

Summit transformed this site from the old Wrigleyville Taco Bell (no need to fret, there is a new Taco Bell in the ground-level retail space of the new building) into a fresh space that serves its community through movement.

Movement Wrigleyville includes three floors wrapped around a central atrium that hosts 11,000 square feet of bouldering, a yoga studio, locker rooms, numerous spaces with fitness equipment, and a support office. The weights and cardio areas have their own floor overlooking the climbing spaces. These spaces provide ample opportunities for individuals to engage in physical activities that promote health and well-being. The abundance of natural light, spaciousness, and well-designed layout contribute to a welcoming and inspiring environment.

Just steps from Wrigley Field, the location of this modern building is prime for all Chicago residents and visitors. With easy walkability, residents now have access to a brand-new 41,895-square-foot climbing gym.

This space contains multitudes. The yoga studio provides a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of Chicago with an assortment of yoga classes offered daily, ranging from a standard Flow to Acro Yoga to Yin and more. Fitness classes include but are not limited to H.I.I.T., strength, and mobility classes. You can also find climbing lessons at Movement Gym as well as an array of children’s programs such as summer camps and lessons. Community events are another highlight of this space, with upcoming events including Queer climb night, boulders and books, sober meet-ups, and much more. You can book a free tour of this space anytime you like.

I personally visited this facility and was blown away by the accessible climbs and kindness of fellow climbers. The massive space provides ample room for climbing, with routes suitable for all, no matter your skill level. As a beginner, this was especially important to me. Equally as crucial, the sense of community was palpable. I was blown away by the support of fellow climbers, calling out words of encouragement and tips as I attempted certain routes. The accessible climbs and kindness of fellow climbers proved this space is truly for all. Whether you are looking for a solo workout, a friend group hangout, a family excursion, or a space to make new friends, 1111 W Addison has you covered. Plus, the physical benefits of engaging in such activities are extensive, including improved brain health, an extended lifespan, diminished risk of diseases and injuries, and so much more. It is evident that this space was purposefully constructed with the intention of helping people thrive and is doing just that.

1111 W Addison exemplifies Summit’s commitment to building spaces where people and businesses thrive. This facility goes beyond being a mere fitness center, providing a sanctuary for physical activity, a supportive community, and a platform for social connections. By offering a variety of amenities and programs, Summit has created a space that helps individuals of all backgrounds and skill levels thrive physically, mentally, and socially.

Author – Sylvia Miller

1111 West Addison Imagery

Jul 15
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Summit recently began the build-out of Taverna Toscana

By Florida, News

Upscale Steakhouse and Seafood Restaurant Coming to Bradenton, FL

Summit Design + Build recently began the build-out of Taverna Toscana, a luxury Italian steakhouse and seafood restaurant located in Bradenton, Florida.

Set to be located just minutes away from the river, Taverna Toscana will be situated on the plaza level of the current SUNZ Insurance building. The 10,000 sf restaurant build-out is expected to be completed in the beginning of 2024, and will feature:

  • custom furnishings
  • bar/lounge area
  • open dining area
  • restrooms
  • outdoor patio
  • and a full-service kitchen

Top Chef Fabio Viviani has partnered with BABB Hospitality, as well as entrepreneur Steve Herrig to create this vision.

Barker Nestor Inc. is serving as the project architect.

 

Jul 01
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Summit Completes Interior Alterations for Kvadrat, Inc.

By News

Summit Design + Build Completes Interior Alterations for Kvadrat, Inc.

Mixed-Use showroom and office space for luxury Danish textile manufacturer

Summit Design + Build has completed the full interior alterations for Kvadrat, Inc., a luxury Danish textile manufacturer that specializes in high-quality fabrics and design products. This space is situated on the ground floor of 1042 W Fulton Market, in the heart of the West Loop’s Fulton Market District.

Kvadrat, Inc.’s new showroom comprises nearly 2000 sf, displaying artistic installations of luxury home décor, as well as providing professional design services. Also included are meeting and office spaces, creating inspiration for those both visiting and working. 

Marquette Companies served as the developer, and BE Architects as the architect for the project.

Jun 19
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Marquette Management West Loop Office Completion

By News

Completion of Interior Build-Out for Marquette Management

Nearly 4,000 sf Office Build-Out for Marquette Management

Summit Design + Build has completed the interior build-out for Marquette Management, located on the first level of 1454 Randolph, an 11-story luxury apartment building.

Marquette Management is an Illinois-based property management company, that just opened a management office in the heart of the West Loop. This new working space includes four individual office rooms, as well as an open office space with a pantry and kitchen area. Also included is a conference room, ping pong table, and a storage area. This new space provides a functional, aesthetically pleasing workplace to foster productivity and innovation.

Brininstool + Lynch served as the project architect.

Jun 13
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Design-Build for Commercial Construction

By Industry Insights

Summit Design + Build: Building Spaces Where People Thrive

The Benefits of Design-Build for Commercial Construction

If you’ve been tuned into the news at any point over the past few years, you’ve undoubtedly seen how construction costs continue to rise. Expensive materials, labor shortages, severe weather, and a host of other issues have caused large-scale projects to miss deadlines and break budgets with regularity.

If any of these challenges have you holding your breath prior to an upcoming commercial construction project, there is a viable solution at hand: partnering with a design-build firm. In this article, we will explore the benefits of design-build and how it can potentially help keep project costs under control.

What Is the Design-Build Concept?

 

Design-build is the idea that a single entity will be in charge of all aspects of the construction process, from early design planning to completion. Many construction projects piece out responsibilities in a design-bid-build, or hardbid, construction process. This results in inefficiencies in terms of cost and completion times. Choosing to partner with a design-build firm removes many of the moving parts common to a construction process.

Advantages of Using Design-Build in Commercial Construction

Design-build streamlines many of the most challenging aspects of a construction project, such as communication between stakeholders and scheduling the myriad contractors.

With the design-build method, the contractor assumes most of the risk for staying on budget and meeting deadlines. This gives owners incredible peace of mind.

  • A few more specific advantages of design-build include:
    Integrated budgeting, scheduling, and building from the early stages of planning, guaranteeing that all stakeholders and contractors are on the same page.
  • Due to everything being done in-house with a unified vision, certain projects can be green-lighted and started ahead of time, resulting in significant time savings.
  • With an extensive pool of trusted contractors and subcontractors, the design-build firm guarantees that the project is always expertly staffed by the highest quality professionals in the industry.

At the end of the day, while the streamlined communication and collaboration lead to a better process that results in time and cost savings, it also adds up to the greatest benefit of all: better buildings.

How Design-Build Can Lead to Cost Savings

 

When looking at cost savings, it is beneficial to compare design-build over the more traditional design-bid-build, or hardbid, method of construction. The design-build concept offers several potential cost savings over hardbird, which requires stakeholders to enter into contracts with separate entities for both the design and construction processes.

Design-build is usually more economical than hardbid because you’re only hiring one company. In hardbid, you hire an architect and a contractor separately, which means you’ll have to pay not only for their time and services, but any associated fees and administrative costs that are standard for each company, resulting in cost inefficiencies. In design-build, the same company will handle all aspects of your project. This makes it easier to keep track of costs and budgets.

Design-build can also save money by eliminating some steps in the process. In hardbid, the architect and contractor must communicate back and forth with each other throughout the project. This can take up valuable time and resources that could be better spent elsewhere.

Finally, design-build can also save money by eliminating some of the risks associated with construction projects. With hardbid, there are more chances for errors or miscommunication between different parties involved in the project. In design-build, there is only one party involved in all aspects of the project, which streamlines processes and increases efficiency in communication, which has the potential to lead to cost savings.

Trends to Execute in a Design-Build Project

 

Some people may erroneously think that choosing an inclusive, all-in-one design build firm will in some way limit the kind of building concepts they can employ.

This is not the case at all.

Design-build firms are well-equipped to handle some of the most innovative, cutting-edge trends in commercial construction and the materials that make them possible.  Some of the trendy concepts that design-build can effectively execute include:

  • Open interiors that increase natural light flow and use acoustic wall panels to stylishly limit sound transfer
  • The highest standard in safety with ADA accommodations, modern glass stair railing around all elevated areas, innovative fire suppression systems, and an infrastructure of safety doors and credentialed access
  • Functional exterior spaces that use roof deck tiles to create rooftop hangouts, permeable pavers to promote drainage, and attractive stone facades for outdoor break areas

All in all, pairing with a modern design-build firm allows stakeholders to execute a wide variety of trends and associated materials to create any type of structure they envision.

The Benefits of Design-Build for Commercial Construction

 

The streamlined communication and collaboration made possible with the design-build concept can result in major time and money savings for project owners. If you are still in the planning process for a commercial construction project and want to further explore the ways that design-build can help you out, contact Summit Design + Build today for a consultation!

Natalie Akins is a freelance writer that loves sharing her knowledge and expertise on interior decorating and remodeling. She lives in her hometown of Austin, Texas where she enjoys spending time with her husband and decorating with her children. Natalie’s work as a freelance writer can be found on Building Product Advisor, a new construction industry resource site.

Apr 21
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Healthcare Facility Construction

By Industry Insights

Summit Design + Build: Building Spaces Where People Thrive

Healthcare Facility Construction

Summit is built on one key proposition: “building spaces where people & business thrive.” Our company has always been dedicated to this principle, and we have built a reputation for creating spaces that meet this standard. However, there is more to our story than the buildings we have erected. We want to take the time to thoroughly understand the impact our buildings have on the people who use them.

This is the start of a series of blogs that will delve into how our spaces are positively impacting the lives of those who occupy them. We will be exploring the tangible benefits our clients are experiencing as a result of the spaces we have built. Join us as we explore how Summit is helping people thrive.

One area where Summit Design + Build excels in is medical facility construction. At Summit, we understand that the highest standards of quality and precision are vital to any medical facility construction project. Whether building a primary care or plastic surgery facility, the innovation and value engineering Summit provides are essential to ensure the final product includes leading technology and flexibility for future growth and industry advancements.

This is evident in the various medical facility projects that Summit has completed, including the interior refresh of Orthopedic Specialists. This project included new flooring, paint, and minor electrical and plumbing upgrades. Another notable example is the office build-out for Primary Care Healthcare Associates, which consisted of a reception area, exam rooms, as well as private offices.

Summit also recently completed the new construction of the Tree House Humane Society, a 2-story cat adoption center for a non-profit humane organization that features veterinary clinics, open-air cat patios, a cat café, an outdoor terrace, and offices and meeting rooms. Proving Summit creates places where even felines can thrive!

The Human Society’s new facility not only offers a range of amenities such as a newly constructed shelter, vet clinic, meeting rooms, and offices, but also enhances the overall working environment, making it more pleasant and conducive for employees and visitors alike. The new open-air environment was constructed with tall ceilings and plenty of windows, that provide natural light. These improvements have turned the Tree House Humane Society into a cutting-edge animal shelter that provides an inviting environment that one can feel as soon as they walk through the door. The transition from an old storefront to this new facility has made a significant positive impact on everyone involved, empowering the organization to fulfill their mission and protect cats in need.

The best spaces are ones that accommodate users and improve daily lives. The medical spaces that Summit builds do just that. The results are tangible, whether that’s better access to healthcare because your doctor is just around the corner, or a more relaxing smooth doctor’s appointment because the office is built in a calming and organized fashion. The way a space is built alters the experience of the patient. From the moment a patient enters one of our medical spaces, they can feel the attention to detail and care that went into its construction. The spaces we build are designed to make the patient experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible. At Summit, we approach construction with the goal of enhancing the lives of those who use the spaces we create, and we take pride in the tangible results that come from our efforts.

Our focus on medical facility construction is just one example of how we are able to achieve our one key proposition. Our dedication to this principle extends beyond just medical spaces. We also specialize in recreational facility construction, creating spaces that provide opportunities for physical activity, a sense of community, and much more. We are proud of the impact our spaces have on the lives of those who use them and we look forward to exploring this further in our upcoming series of blogs.

Author – Sylvia Miller

Apr 11
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Completion of Adaptive Reuse Hotel

By News

Completion of Adaptive Reuse Hotel

Five-story boutique, extended-stay hotel completed in Chicago’s West Loop

Summit Design + Build has completed the gut demolition and renovation of a five-story industrial building into a boutique extended-stay hotel at 1436 Randolph in the West Loop neighborhood of Chicago.

The five-story extended-stay boutique hotel is located on Randolph Street, directly across from Union Park. This project contains 49 apartment-style rooms, consisting of both studios and one-bedrooms. All rooms are fully equipped with kitchens and in-suite laundry, and the building contains a state-of-the-art fitness center for guests to utilize. The ground floor contains both retail and restaurant space.

Marquette Companies served as the developer, and Brininstool + Lynch as the Architect for the project.

Mar 17
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Spotlight on North Carolina Construction

By Industry Insights, North Carolina

Spotlight on North Carolina Construction

Ranked as the nation’s top state for business in 2022 by both CNBC and Forbes, North Carolina is a growing hot spot for manufacturing, technology, finance and more.

With one of the highest net migration rates in the country, folks have been consistently re-locating to the Tar Hell State for the past decade.

The state’s noted growth and pro-business climate is fueled by a few factors including access to professionals graduating from Research Triangle institutions, access to capital with four of the country’s top five branch banks headquartered in the state and quality of life.

Further, noted government investment incentives recently attracted Apple to build an east coast hub, Toyota to manufacture a battery plant, Boom Supersonic to construct an airline manufacturing facility VinFast to build an electric vehicle plant and Wolfspeed to design a microchip manufacturing plant.

It’s no wonder that Zillow ranked Raleigh and Charlotte in the top five hottest housing markets in 2022.

Summit in Charlotte

Originally invited by a multifamily client to build a couple projects in North Carolina, expanding to this booming real estate market was a natural move for Summit Design + Build.

Summit is actively working on Vida 2 – a 7-story building with first-level retail and 6 levels of 97 residential units in Kannapolis. And Stadium Lofts, also currently under construction, is two stories of retail and five stories of residential overlooking the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers stadium, a Chicago White Sox minor league baseball team. Expected to wrap this summer, the building will feature a lobby, fitness center, club room and a parking garage, and the apartments will offer balconies, and high-end appliances and finishes. In addition, the new building will house the Towel City Tavern with drinks brewed by the local Cabarrus Brewing Company and a top-shelf bourbon bar with seating overlooking Atrium Health Ballpark.

Drawn In

Just two miles west to the Appalachian Mountains and an hour and a half east to the outer banks of the Atlantic Ocean, the State offers whitewater kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, two national parks, bird watching, and great restaurants and wineries.

With a strong job and housing market and lower cost of living, as compared to other states and cities, people are drawn to North Carolina.

A commuter rail from Raleigh to Sanford is currently under construction, and is anticipated to bring more development to the area.

“We see North Carolina as being a very successful market,” relates Summit Design + Build’s project team. “The growth potential is astronomical.”

About the Author

Barbara Horwitz-Bennett is a seasoned architectural journalist, covering the design and construction industry for the past 20+ years. She writes for numerous industry magazines and creates content for AEC firms and product manufacturers..