Lake Ellyn Park 2013 Master Plan

2. site analysis & existing conditions
Currently, the Boathouse is used as a warming shelter
for skaters & walkers in the winter and an event and
concession space in warmer months. The restrooms are
currently required to be open to the public from the
exterior making it difficult to hold closed, private events
in the Boathouse. The existing North and South entrances
lack historic appeal with commercial, opaque metal doors
that do not create a welcoming entrance coming either
from Lenox Road or Lake Ellyn.
Inside the Boathouse, many original finishes were replaced
with those that do not align with the original historic
design. For example, the ceiling in the Main Hall was
lowered to accommodate mechanical systems and fitted
with acoustic panels, and ceiling fans - erasing the original
aesthetic of a vaulted ceiling and exposed collar beam. In
addition, the present windows with plastic mullions and
the metal doorways are not historically appropriate.
Separate from the actual building, the outdoor spaces
surrounding the Boathouse could be improved to connect
and engage with Lake Ellyn. For example, the concrete
retaining wall to the east blocks views of the lake and
constricts connections between the patio viewing areas
and the top level of the deck. In addition, the current deck
and railing design with broad wood members obscures
the view of the boathouse from the east.
historic images of the boathouse
view of the boathouse from the west
Lake Ellyn Park Master Plan
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