On October 1, 2007, John Pfluger, AIA, LEED® A.P. presented at the School Wellness Conference in Anaheim, California. The inaugural conference, hosted by the California School Boards Association, the California Department of Education and California Department of Public Health, focused on improving learning environments, encouraging overall healthy eating habits and increasing the physical education of public school children in California. Pfluger’s presentation, “One Lunch Tray at a Time: Approaches to Transforming School Nutrition” explored the program at Hopkins Public Schools in Minnesota.
Pfluger shared how Cuningham Group’s work with the district transformed a learning community’s view of its collective health. From changes in food preparation and menu choices to the creation of environments that attract “customers,” the presentation demonstrated the importance of collaborative visioning to foster and enhance district-wide transformation initiatives.
What began with a visioning process to try and improve its basic nutrition program led to the creation of a comprehensive, full-service culinary department and profit generator for Hopkins Public Schools. Not only is the program delivering the national school lunch and breakfast program to students by providing healthy meals and a la carte options, Hopkins Royal Cuisine offers hands–on learning experience for all learners in nutrition, culinary art, business, marketing, and hospitality education. This approach took the notion of healthy eating and living beyond the busy lunchtime cafeteria. New facilities and programs also allowed for extended culinary and business services to the District and community through multiple venues and options, enhancing District budget opportunities. The changes are actually adding funds to the District’s coffers during a time when most public school systems are “trimming the fat” anywhere but in the kitchen.
MINNEAPOLIS — It’s a story that’s typical of many schools in the Twin Cities: Buildings built in the early and mid 20th century undergo patchwork renovations and additions through the years until they stop working. Stop working in the sense that they fall short in their ability to properly support 21st century teaching and learning. Saint Paul Public Schools’ Washington Technology Magnet Middle School was no exception, and the district hired Cuningham Group Architecture, P.A. (Cuningham Group) to help bridge the gap between the 1924 masonry building and the technology-focused curriculum it houses.
Cuningham Group facilitated a process to define a clear path for the magnet school’s future and to fulfill its vision of providing a place where technology engages students and creative learning is visible and celebrated. The results included a plan that infused technology throughout the four-story, 217,000-square-foot building and the design of an 86,000-square-foot “heart of the school” centerpiece addition.
As a first step, the district and Cuningham Group determined the existing school would be renovated and supplemented by an addition rather than demolish the old and construct a completely new building. This decision not only served to reduce the project’s impact on the environment, but it also preserved the school’s place in the history and character of the neighborhood. The addition was located over the existing building footprint so no additional land was covered to achieve the expanded floor area. Notably, the school remained in operation during the entire renovation and construction process with Cuningham Group and the school coordinating closely to maintain safety and security and to help avoid disruption.
The “heart of the school” is the three-story Technology Gallery addition. The gallery’s surprise, technology-inspired interior is a novel contrast to the school’s traditional looking exterior. Flooded with daylight and alive with student interaction, the dramatic atrium space was designed to have a cyber café atmosphere and to serve as a gathering space and organizing source for the school. Students can interact in both casual and formal settings in the technology-based learning environment. New project labs create technology-supported workspaces, which provide opportunities for broadened student interaction and replace the traditional model of a classroom lined with rows of computers. In addition, teacher resource areas are organized to view the atrium and allow observation of common spaces. The openness and visibility created by the design serves to enhance safety and security.
Anchored by the Technology Gallery, Cuningham Group’s design for Washington Technology Magnet Middle School ultimately unifies and rejuvenates an old building. The more open plan clarifies circulation and increases visibility while daylight fills spaces that were once closed corridors. Circulation paths that pass through the heart of the school are viewed from numerous levels creating clarity from complexity. Elements of the program – such as the Administration suite – were relocated for easier accessibility. And advanced technology was installed in teaching and presentation spaces throughout the school to enhance flexibility, connectivity and collaboration. Parts of the school can also be opened and shared with the public, which will help to promote community ownership and partnerships.
In addition to the decision to renovate rather than build new, Cuningham Group helped the district incorporate other sustainable elements into the project. For example, energy efficient mechanical and lighting systems were installed and 75% of the spaces receive daylight. Light fixtures and wood trim were reused in the new construction, and recycled content materials were used where appropriate.
The rejuvenated Washington Technology Magnet Middle School welcomed students and staff on the first day of school, September 4, 2007.
MINNEAPOLIS — Designed to support Watertown-Mayer Public Schools’ vision to provide flexible, adaptable and integrated learning while recognizing the identity and history of the community and surrounding areas, the new Watertown-Mayer Elementary School integrates innovative educational design with respect for the local community and the environment.
The new elementary school, designed for 600 students in grades 1-5, is organized into neighborhoods that break the school into small learning communities. The flexible and adaptable learning environment allows teachers to deliver instruction in a multitude of ways and, most importantly, enables each learner to succeed based upon his/her individual learning styles. The openness and visibility created by the design serves to enhance safety and security.
The architecture also supports the district’s goal to instill in its learners a sense of respect and stewardship for the environment by providing an opportunity for teachers to discuss nature both inside and outside the classroom, and for students to understand the environment in a new and creative light.
The design celebrates the Crow River and the surrounding landscapes—the concept is a metaphor of the River passing through the central spaces that lead to the academic wings. Each academic wing has its own identity recalling the surrounding land forms of farmland, wetland, woodland, and prairie.
The school connects directly to the site by literally allowing nature to pass through the building. Prairie grasses and exterior walking paths connect features of the site from the west and flow uninterrupted across the central spaces of the school to the exterior. The exterior architecture is reminiscent of Main Street and its materials and scale.
Watertown-Mayer Elementary School was designed to achieve LEED® Silver certification. Sustainable design features include implementing a geothermal well system, promoting water and energy efficiency, managing storm water, and choosing regional materials and resources. Daylighting is provided to the vast majority of the learning spaces and state-of-the-art high efficiency mechanical systems are used to bring fresh air into each classroom. Optimizing the energy performance of the building and its systems is projected to result in a 40% savings in energy costs.
The new elementary school welcomes the community not only in its use of the public spaces such as the cafeteria, performance area, gymnasium, media center and ball fields, but also into the learning process. It provides opportunities for the community to act as mentors and for the learners to provide services to the community, applying what they have learned in the classroom.
Watertown-Mayer Elementary School opened September 10, 2007.
After being closed for six months of renovation, Lotte World, the world’s largest indoor theme park, re-opened on July 1, 2007. Cuningham Group Architecture, P.A. (Cuningham Group) led the multi-million dollar renewal project.
Celebrating its 18th year, Lotte World embarked on a renewal plan to revitalize the aging park. Cuningham Group designers worked closely with the Lotte World team to identify major areas of the park for architectural and themed redesign, including the main and south gates, the main bridge between Adventure Park and Magic Island, and portions of the new Adventure Park. Cuningham Group’s “on-site” team collaborated with the Lotte Renewal Task Force on a revised, park-wide color scheme – updating the finishes on virtually every structure and scenic element in the park, including the material and color selection for the newly installed roof panel system.
“Working on-site, side-by-side with the Lotte Renewal Task Force, enabled us to respond quickly in order to meet the project’s July re-opening date,” said Scott Mallwitz, Director, Experience Design for Cuningham Group. Mallwitz, along with Cuningham Group’s design team in Los Angeles, were mobilized to address every major facet of the park’s renewal, including conceptual development of new park entry gates, architectural finishes throughout the park, scenic paint and on-site art direction.
Cuningham Group has expanded services and markets to meet a growing demand from some of the largest and most respected theme park and entertainment clients throughout the world.
They have earned an outstanding reputation for creating and delivering excellence in master planning, architecture and interior design for entertainment, hospitality, food service, retail, and leisure projects worldwide. Major achievements have been accomplished for clients such as Walt Disney Imagineering, Universal Studios, Paramount Parks, Rainforest Cafe, GameWorks, Six Flags Theme Parks and Legoland.
Cuningham Group Architecture, P.A. announced that Judith Hoskens, Michael Lamb, and Paul A. Ragozzino have been promoted to Associate Principals and Bridget Blank, Nina Broadhurst, Paul Hagen, and Charles Stoffel have been promoted to Associates in the internationally known design firm.
Judith Hoskens is the Senior Educational Planner for the firm’s Education Studio. She is experienced in all phases of project development from master planning through construction. Her experience serving and working with committees, together with her technical background provides the clear communication and coordination required for project success. She also serves as the studio marketing leader for the Education Studio and is responsible for developing and creating opportunities to expand the studio’s position in the K-12 market.
Judith is an active member of the Council of Educational Facility Planners International (CEFPI). She was the recipient of the 2002 CEFPI President’s Award, an annual award given to the individual who distinguishes him/herself in service to the Council and to the field of educational facility planning. A recognized Educational Facility Planner (REFP), Judith is also a LEED® Accredited Professional.
Michael Lamb is Director of Urban Design and leads the firm’s Urban Design studio. His expertise includes housing/mixed-use development, infill/redevelopment, new neighborhood design, transit-oriented development, and town centers. He has led and collaborated on some of the most significant planning and redevelopment efforts in the Twin Cities metropolitan area that have incorporated Smart Growth, Transit-Oriented and New Urban principles and patterns.
Michael holds a Master of Architecture in Urban Design from the University of Colorado.
Paul A. Ragozzino, AIA, serves as a Project Manager and Architect for the firm’s Restaurant / Retail Studio. A licensed architect with 26 years of experience, Paul is a proven leader with a keen ability to synthesize the needs of diverse groups to build consensus and drive projects forward while being conscious of client budgets and schedules. His expertise includes restaurant, entertainment, education, municipal, corporate, and residential projects. Paul is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and is certified by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB).
Bridget Blank is the Marketing Manager for Cuningham Group. She is responsible for supporting the firm’s marketing and business development efforts, collaborating with principals and project teams to identify and track leads and targets, and helping to maintain the integrity of the firm’s story as it is presented to a variety of markets. A graduate of St. Norbert College, she brings a dynamic and thoughtful approach to her position at Cuningham Group.
Nina Broadhurst serves as the Project Manager in the firm’s Corporate Studio. Her design skills, along with her team leadership and management abilities throughout all phases of the design process, have contributed to the success of many projects.
Paul Hagen, AIA, serves as a Project Manager on a variety of projects. Paul has worked in the field of architecture for over 25 years with a main focus on primary and secondary school facilities. His experience includes master planning, expansions and renovations for new and existing facilities. Paul also brings experience with municipal buildings and worship facilities. He is a licensed architect, and a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the Minnesota Association of School Maintenance Supervisors.
Charles Stoffel is a resourceful team leader with strong management skills and is responsible for project coordination for the firm’s Worship/Non-Profit Studio.
There are architects and developers working to provide us with living solutions that leave a smaller footprint on the land on which they stand. Among those notable architecture firms is Cuningham Group Architecture, P.A. In practice since 1968, they have built a portfolio of innovative residential designs that combine good looks and marketability with solid green credentials and intelligent, responsible land use.
Read the full story by Bradley Tuck.
http://www.944.com/articles/4395
Sara Rothholz Weiner brings more than 18 years of experience and a broad depth of expertise working with both private and public sector clients, most recently for local clients Halleland Lewis Nilan & Johnson, P.A; Larkin Hoffman Lundgren and Daly, P.A; Briggs & Morgan, P.A.; StoneArch Creative; Minneapolis Public Library; and Mall of America.
Weiner brings an established reputation as a leader in the design of unique and responsive environments. Her understanding of the value of design to sustain and advance business objectives, support and enhance corporate culture, and provide sustainable and delightful spaces will be an asset to our firm. She will use this understanding and experience in her role as Director of Cuningham Group’s Corporate Studio.
Weiner is a member of the American Institute of Architects, International Facility Manager Association and is a LEED® Accredited Professional. In addition, she currently teaches an Architecture Design studio at the University of Minnesota’s College of Design.
Minneapolis, MN/Los Angeles, CA – Cuningham Group Architecture, P.A. (Cuningham Group) has announced the promotion of Margaret “Meg” S. Parsons and Kathryn M. Wallace as the company’s newest Shareholders and Principals. Combined, the pair represents over four decades of specialized knowledge in the planning, designing and programming of learning environments. As Principals in Cuningham Group’s Minneapolis Education Studio, Parsons’ and Wallace’s primary focus will be to partner with communities to create environments that reflect the energy and joy of life-long learning.
“It is my honor to welcome Meg and Kathryn as our newest Principals and Shareholders,” said Timothy Dufault, Cuningham Group President. “Their expertise in creating effective learning environments brings great value to our clients and helps them achieve their educational goals.”
Parsons and Wallace are affiliated with several nationally renowned architecture industry organizations including American Institute of Architects (AIA); Council of Education Facility Planners International (CEFPI) and United States Green Building Council (USGBC).
Cuningham Group is a worldwide architectural design leader and is renowned for its creation of entertainment destinations; mixed-use projects and urban infill housing; specialty dining and retail establishments; places of worship; corporate offices and learning environments.
MARGARET S. PARSONS, AIA, REFP, LEED® A.P.
Meg Parsons joined Cuningham Group Architecture, P.A. in 1989 and has been active in a wide range of projects from high schools to elementary schools, from pre-referendum planning through construction. Her expertise is in assisting schools and districts in their facility planning and community engagement process. As a Recognized Educational Facility Planner (REFP), Parsons has been involved in an impressive number of award-winning projects including the 2002 CEFPI MacConnell Award-winning project, Crosswinds Arts and Science Middle School, an innovative inter-district school located in Woodbury, Minnesota, and the winner of the 2006 CEFPI Lighthouse Award for Remodeled Schools, Kotzebue Schools, a K-12 facility located in Kotzebue, Alaska. Most recently Meg worked with the Saint Paul Public Schools in Minnesota on an extensive remodeling of the Washington Technology Magnet Middle School. This project is under construction and will be complete this fall.
As a Cuningham Group Principal, Parsons will continue serving as Senior Project Manager and Educational Facility Planner, providing in-depth guidance on K-12 projects both in Minnesota and nationally. Meg also serves as the Operations Leader for the firm’s Education Studio in Minneapolis.
“I am extremely privileged to represent Cuningham Group as a Principal and Shareholder,” said Parsons. “Cuningham Group is an innovative architectural firm that values the contributions of all team members. By working collaboratively with districts and schools throughout the US and internationally we have helped communities realize their vision for their children by creating environments that enhance learning. This is a rewarding and important task.”
Parsons earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Columbia University in New York City and her Master of Architecture from the University of Minnesota. As a sought after speaker and frequent contributor on the impact of learning environments, Meg shares her stories and professional experience on a national level by speaking at various conferences including the CEFPI Annual Conference. Recent topics she has presented include: “Planning the Middle School of the Future”, “Creating Environments that Improve Children’s Health”, “What is Kindergarten? Facility Implications in a New Era”, and “Head, Heart, and Hands: What Waldorf Schools Can Teach Us About Learning and Learning Environments.” Most recently Meg has been invited to teach a Masters level on-line course on Educational Facility Community Engagement and Master Planning through San Diego State University.
KATHRYN M. WALLACE, AIA, LEED® A.P.
Since joining Cuningham Group in 1988, Kathryn M. Wallace has been instrumental in the planning and programming of learning environments for students of all ages. Her efforts on numerous educational projects include leading groups of staff, students and administrators through a process of setting goals and criteria for reorganizing and expanding facilities. As a Principal at Cuningham Group, Wallace provides keen ideas and clear vision to the firm’s numerous educational projects.
“I am excited to delve deeper into the realm of human needs within learning spaces here at Cuningham Group,” said Wallace. “Our solid foundation of clear communication will continue to play a vital role in the completion of our educational projects, and I am looking forward to the new challenges that will enable us to continue to surpass clients’ expectations.”
Wallace received her Bachelor of Arts at Carleton College in 1980 where she graduated Magna cum Laude. Later Wallace expanded her knowledge in Architecture by completing a Master of Architecture at the University of Minnesota in 1987.
While at Cuningham Group, Wallace has been very instrumental deciphering and communicating essential elements of the firm’s educational projects. Wallace’s curiosity, quick understanding and extensive experience with learning spaces have resulted in the completion of over 22 complex projects.
Notably, Wallace was instrumental in the transformation of Hopkins High School. The process for this addition and remodel started with conversations among staff, parents, students and the community. Wallace brought these groups together in a visioning process that challenged the traditional assumptions of the comprehensive high school. The outcome was an invigorated facility, with classroom wings that open up to student/staff resource centers where learners can connect easily with teachers, study and get assistance. Most recently Wallace was part of the team contracted by Minnesota State Colleges & Universities (MnSCU) to create pre-funding analyses of innovative projects at 25 state college and university campuses. This work required integration of cutting-edge educational practices with very concrete space and construction considerations.
Biloxi, MS – International architecture firm Cuningham Group Architecture, P.A. (Cuningham Group) announces the opening of its newest office in Biloxi, Mississippi. The Biloxi office officially opens February 2007, and the firm will focus on the resort, hospitality and entertainment industries that were severely damaged because of Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Cuningham Group’s Gulf Coast expansion is particularly significant because the core team members heading this office have specific expertise and personal connections with the area, including established relationships with gaming proprietors.
Resident architect Colleen Cullen, AIA will head the Biloxi office.
Cuningham Group has been active in providing quality professional services in Mississippi and on the Gulf Coast for the past 15 years.
“We welcome the opportunity to reinforce our long-standing commitment to the growth, health and commercial revitalization of the Gulf Coast,” said Cuningham Group Principal Thomas Hoskens. “Rebuilding this very special area is everyone’s responsibility. Cuningham Group embraces the challenge to do its part, and it is this firm’s mission to design structures that pay homage to the rich heritage and resiliency of this region.
Design excellence, technical quality, value and client collaboration are just some of the many qualities that Colleen Cullen will help bring to Cuningham Group’s new Biloxi office.
COLLEEN CULLEN, AIA, NCARB
Colleen Cullen is an established professional architect with over 25 years of experience in master planning, design and construction contract administration. Because her repertoire includes architecture and construction contract administration, Cullen brings a unique understanding of the design process from concept to final build-out.
“Because I originate from this area, the rebuilding of the Gulf Coast is as much a personal goal as it is a professional one,” said Cullen. “I’m very fortunate to work for an architecture firm that realizes the importance of including heart and soul – in addition to exceptional design principles – into each of its projects.”
Cullen is a highly skilled project manager and she has successfully managed numerous projects and project teams while satisfying the sometimes competing needs and expectations of both clients and stakeholders.
Over the past decade, Cuningham Group has been instrumental in the planning and designing of several major resort hospitality and gaming projects in Mississippi; these projects consist of Grand Casino Gulfport, Grand Casino Biloxi, and Grand Casino Tunica Casino Resort. Other projects include: Mignon Steak & Seafood Restaurant and Palace Buffet at Palace Casino Resort in Biloxi; Biloxi Hotel Presidential Suites and Grand Casino Gulfport Presidential Suites; and Palace Sports Zone and Z The Club in Biloxi.