University of Saint Francis

Tonn and Blank Construction continues to deliver exceptional work with two of their recent projects on the University of Saint Francis campus in Fort Wayne. The Achatz Hall of Science and Chapel projects are stunning examples of innovative spaces that blend in perfect harmony with the natural environment. 

The newly renovated Achatz Hall of Science encompasses more than 60,000 sf and plays a key role in the University’s increased focus on health professions. A contemporary two-story atrium features a large stairwell and views of Mirror Lake at the heart of the campus. And the learning spaces include renovated teaching labs, research labs, and classrooms to support Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Environmental Science, Anatomy and Physiology, Math, and Computer Science majors.

Just north of Achatz Hall is another prominent campus landmark – The Chapel. One of its most distinctive features is an octagonal cupola that contains eight windows, each over 10 ft tall.  The cupola was constructed on the ground, then carefully lifted into place by Tonn and Blank’s team of experts.

Market Street Plaza

When the team at HWC Engineering invited me to photograph the revitalized Market Street Plaza in New Albany, IN, I jumped at the opportunity. Some places just draw you in through clues about the decades of interesting history that played out there. New Albany, located on the Ohio River, opposite of Louisville, KY, is one of those places.  Until 1860, it was one of the state’s largest cities, attracting businesses and bright new talent.  Edwin Hubble (that’s right, the telescope guy) even found his way there in 1913 to teach at the local high school. 

The Market Street project, located in historic downtown New Albany, celebrates the city’s rich history and close ties to the Ohio River through design elements including decorative crosswalks and limestone pier lights. Inviting blue chairs and picnic tables provide a place for residents and visitors to relax and take in all that the city has to offer.  It may not be the largest city in Indiana, but there’s an unmistakable vibrancy that makes this community something special.

John R. Wooden Middle School

I grew up believing that basketball, Hoosier Hysteria and March Madness were a way of life. With some years under my belt, I’ve come to learn that it’s atypical for most 3rd graders to have several brackets going . . . as part of a class project. But that’s how we teach statistical probability in Indiana classrooms, and I wouldn’t want it any other way.

While my formative years were spent watching Bobby Knight and Gene Keady go toe-to-toe, no coach can compare to the Hoosier State’s own John Wooden. His winning record proves he was an incredible coach, and although he had an unparalleled mastery of the game, his leadership coaching methodology is what fascinates me now. If you haven’t checked out his Pyramid of Success, I highly recommend it. 

Barton Coe Vilamaa was kind enough to provide an opportunity for me to photograph the gym where the legendary Coach Wooden used to play. It’s now the Glenn Curtis Memorial Gymnasium at John R. Wooden Middle School in Martinsville, IN. Named named after Wooden’s former coach, the gym used to be on the Martinsville High School site, and it’s now part of the middle school.

Schools may change, and they may even change locations, but basketball greatness stands the test of time. More than 90 years have passed since Wooden played on the court, and I swear I could still hear echoes of basketballs and sneakers leaving their marks on the gym floor. It was incredible. So was the guy who said this:

“I think that in any group activity—whether it be business, sports or family—there has to be leadership, or it won’t be successful.” – John Wooden

Reid Health

Healthcare has always been a focus area for MSKTD. Now more than ever, healthcare is top-of-mind for many of us too. Check out two recent projects at Reid Health in Richmond, IN. Included are a pediatric rehabilitation center and a doctor’s lounge – two very different spaces with one important thing in common: both need to be warm and welcoming.

The children’s area was designed to feel like a playground. It’s a place where Reid Health’s younger patients can forget they’re in a medical facility and do what kids are wired to do – PLAY! The therapeutic value of the space is undeniable to pediatric healthcare heroes who work with these patients. But don’t mention any of that to the kids. They’re here to have some fun.

The doctor’s lounge is an oasis in the middle of hospital hustle and bustle. This calming space offers a much-needed opportunity for doctors to rest and recharge. With long shifts in a profession that can be intense, having a place to relax – even for a few minutes – can be a gamechanger. 

Visionary Park in Fishers Indiana

Buildings that have been redesigned - given a new sense of purpose to serve their changing communities - are among my favorite subjects to photograph.  Visionary Park in Fishers, Indiana is one of these transformation projects. 

Browning Day’s talented team reinvigorated a warehouse, creating a multi-tenant office space filled with collaboration areas and a public lounge that features natural light and a fully landscaped exterior courtyard. 

Columbia City Eagles Ice Rink

I’m fortunate that my photography job takes me to some pretty cool places. Some are well known. Some are off the beaten path. Occasionally, I even get to bring my family (read: I con my wife into tagging along and bringing my kids, because I need models). 

Recently, they joined me at the Columbia City Eagles Ice Rink. The area was designed by MartinRiley architects ▪ engineers as part of the Russel and Evelyn Fahl Aquatic Center to allow the facility to be used year-round.  The design included the lighting, fencing, restroom access, speakers, security system, and topography for the synthetic ice - a hard plastic surface you can skate on with normal ice skates.  Being the thorough professional that I am, I had to try it out. And I can verify, it is amazing! 

#toepick 

Northrop High School

Going back to my hometown of Ft. Wayne to take photos is always exciting, but this project was extra special. 

Northrop High School was MY high school - the place where I discovered my love of photography. So it’s only fitting that my first blog post be about NHS. 

Northrop’s nearly $40 million renovation was part of Fort Wayne Community Schools’ REPAIR FWCS initiative, which began in 2012. The team at barton Coe Vilamaa breathed new life into science labs, band, choir and art classrooms, common areas and the front office.  

It was a great school when I was a student there, and it’s even better now.