Better Boys Foundation

About BBF Family Services

Better Boys Foundation, now known as BBF Family Services, was founded in 1961 to improve the quality of life for North Lawndale area youth and their families, providing experiences that enhance their emotional, social, academic and career development.

Serving some 200 children and youth each day, BBF concentrates its efforts in out-of-school-time programs and scholarship and career guidance assistance for young people aged 5 to 21.

The solar control challenge

The solar control challenge was due to large glass windows located throughout the facility corridors and lobby that allowed unacceptable levels of solar heat and light from all directions.

The window-lined hallways proved to be a substantial issue as heat was being trapped, creating an uncomfortable environment for children and staff. The solar heat gain also drove up energy costs associated with cooling the facility.

The solution

Illinois Window Shade Company produced a total of 62 clutch operated roller shade systems — a budget-friendly and easy-to-use solar control solution.

Each shade system was fitted with a transparent woven mesh fabric — Nordic Screen in Black/Pearl with 10% openness — specifically designed to manage glare levels and preserve view-through.

The 10% openness factor established a view through the shades to the facility courtyard and North Lawndale community while successfully filtering direct sunlight coming through the large windows.

Four-inch anodized aluminum fascia was applied to provide a sleek, seamless design matching the building's interior.

Results

The interior of the building is properly shaded without disrupting the exterior view, and the right amount of natural light remains.

The shade systems produce measurable results and look fantastic.