Mosaic Construction Completes Construction of New K-12 STEM Learning Facility for Noggin Builders
NORTHBOOK, IL (FEBRUARY 12, 2024) – Mosaic Construction, LLC, a full-service commercial and multifamily design-build firm, has completed construction of an innovative K-12 STEM learning facility for Noggin Builders at 4165 Dundee Road in Northbrook, IL. The 3,750-square-foot project is a renovation of three existing vacant spaces that were combined to be one large space for Noggin, who relocated from a smaller location in Northbrook.
The new location is aimed at reinforcing the importance of STEM studies outside the traditional school setting.
Established in August 2013, Noggin Builders has been at the forefront of education by providing an alternative space for children that emphasizes creative problem-solving, collaboration, and perseverance through afterschool and summertime learning programs. Noggin Builders was recently named Northbrook’s Business of the Year by the Northbrook Chamber of Commerce & Industry.
Mosaic Construction shares Noggin Builders’ belief in and commitment to STEM education, a priority for today’s youth.
“We are proud to support Noggin Builders on this important project. Creating a space where children can thrive in STEM learning is not just a project for us, it’s a commitment to the future of our community,” said Ira Singer, Founder and Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at Mosaic Construction.
The facility renovation led by Mosaic includes four new classrooms designed to foster an environment where children ages 2 to 14 can explore STEM through fun, hands-on activities. A new accordion door provides flexible learning spaces that adapt to various educational activities. The new space has a refrigerator for the students to use for their science experiments and a built-in cage that houses a bearded dragon, adding a live element for the students. Mosaic built and installed a racking system for PVC piping and other building materials to be stored so students can create structures for creative projects. A priority in the design work was to build a large storage room with adequate shelving for the extensive art supplies and tools so the space can remain organized and well-stocked. The learning spaces have been painted in a vibrant color palate to reflect Noggins’ brand identity.
Additional enhancements include the remodeling of three existing bathrooms, sound attenuation insulation, a utility sink, a break room for staff, and a display area for trophies and other accolades.
Mosaic consulted with Noggin on the finishes, with architecture provided by MDT.
“Mosaic’s project portfolio reflects a diverse skillset that we knew would be an ideal fit for our new Northbrook location,” said Amy Torf, Founder and CEO of Noggin Builders. “As a hands-on client, I appreciated the ability to work closely with Mosaic on all aspects of the space design, and the result is a welcoming and inspiring environment for STEM learning. I look forward to collaborating with the Mosaic team on future projects,” she added.