September 16, 2024
Ribbon Cutting Celebrates the Opening of Otto Veterans Square Apartments
HED, in partnership with the Housing Authority of Cook County (HACC) and the City of Chicago Heights, proudly announces the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Otto Veterans Square, a newly completed 82-unit apartment complex designed to serve veterans and families earning 50% or less of the Area Median Income (AMI). The 77,253 GSF development sits on 2.1 acres in the heart of Chicago Heights and marks a significant milestone in the Downtown / EastSide Choice Neighborhoods Plan, aimed at neighborhood renewal.
Otto Veterans Square, built on a portion of the former St. James Hospital campus, is the first phase of a broader vision to revitalize downtown Chicago Heights. This project stands as a beacon of hope and community, offering veterans and their families a safe, affordable, and supportive living environment.
Designed by HED in collaboration with dbHMS (MEP/FP & Energy Rater), d’escoto Inc. (Civil Engineer and Cost Estimating), and Upland Design (Landscape Architecture), Otto Veterans Square meets rigorous standards for sustainability and resident well-being. The design will achieve dual certification under the Enterprise Green Communities Criteria 2020 and the WELL Standard, and also complies with ComEd’s Energy Efficiency Program sustainable design guidelines.
Veteran-Centered Design
“HED’s approach to the design of Otto Veterans Square was deeply informed by the unique needs of its veteran residents,” says Susan King, FAIA, LEED AP BD+C, LFA, Housing & Mixed-Use Sector Leader of HED. “The building features calm interior color palettes, quiet spaces with heightened acoustic standards, and open-plan units and common areas that ensure clear visibility with no hidden corners. These design choices foster a peaceful and secure environment for residents.”
The building's exterior reflects a subtle patriotic theme, using a palette of purplish-blue and white masonry, accented by copper window shrouds. The design aims to create a dignified street presence while blending harmoniously with the surrounding community.
Community and Sustainability
Otto Veterans Square is more than just housing; it’s a community hub. The development includes exercise facilities, office space, meeting areas, and designated spaces for service animals. Outdoor amenities, such as a patio, secured yard, and raised garden beds, encourage resident interaction and foster a sense of purpose.
The project’s sustainable design ensures high performance over time, contributing to both environmental responsibility and the long-term health of its residents. Achieving dual certifications under the Enterprise Green Communities Criteria and the WELL Standard underscores the development’s commitment to sustainability and resident well-being.
A Collaborative Effort
“The Otto Veterans Square development represents another significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to provide high-quality, affordable housing that addresses the specific needs of the community,” said Danita W. Childers, Executive Director, HACC. “We appreciate all of the stakeholders that collaborated with the City of Chicago Heights and the design team to bring this vision to life. Collectively, we are thrilled about the positive impact and opportunity this creates for residents and the entire community.”
For more information about Otto Veterans Square, please visit www.thehacc.org or call (312) 663-5447.
Otto Veterans Square, built on a portion of the former St. James Hospital campus, is the first phase of a broader vision to revitalize downtown Chicago Heights. This project stands as a beacon of hope and community, offering veterans and their families a safe, affordable, and supportive living environment.
Designed by HED in collaboration with dbHMS (MEP/FP & Energy Rater), d’escoto Inc. (Civil Engineer and Cost Estimating), and Upland Design (Landscape Architecture), Otto Veterans Square meets rigorous standards for sustainability and resident well-being. The design will achieve dual certification under the Enterprise Green Communities Criteria 2020 and the WELL Standard, and also complies with ComEd’s Energy Efficiency Program sustainable design guidelines.
Veteran-Centered Design
“HED’s approach to the design of Otto Veterans Square was deeply informed by the unique needs of its veteran residents,” says Susan King, FAIA, LEED AP BD+C, LFA, Housing & Mixed-Use Sector Leader of HED. “The building features calm interior color palettes, quiet spaces with heightened acoustic standards, and open-plan units and common areas that ensure clear visibility with no hidden corners. These design choices foster a peaceful and secure environment for residents.”
The building's exterior reflects a subtle patriotic theme, using a palette of purplish-blue and white masonry, accented by copper window shrouds. The design aims to create a dignified street presence while blending harmoniously with the surrounding community.
Community and Sustainability
Otto Veterans Square is more than just housing; it’s a community hub. The development includes exercise facilities, office space, meeting areas, and designated spaces for service animals. Outdoor amenities, such as a patio, secured yard, and raised garden beds, encourage resident interaction and foster a sense of purpose.
The project’s sustainable design ensures high performance over time, contributing to both environmental responsibility and the long-term health of its residents. Achieving dual certifications under the Enterprise Green Communities Criteria and the WELL Standard underscores the development’s commitment to sustainability and resident well-being.
A Collaborative Effort
“The Otto Veterans Square development represents another significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to provide high-quality, affordable housing that addresses the specific needs of the community,” said Danita W. Childers, Executive Director, HACC. “We appreciate all of the stakeholders that collaborated with the City of Chicago Heights and the design team to bring this vision to life. Collectively, we are thrilled about the positive impact and opportunity this creates for residents and the entire community.”
For more information about Otto Veterans Square, please visit www.thehacc.org or call (312) 663-5447.
Learn more about this project here