Cleveland Job Corps
The spacious 25-acre campus selected by the Department of Labor was planned to accommodate an accredited high school and Community College program. The concept of building seven facilities connected by a pedestrian walkway bears little resemblance to the once blighted, unsafe area that was subject to vandalism and deemed an eyesore. The transformation required a commitment from community, civic and political leaders.
The nine light steel-framed buildings with steel bar joist roofs encapsulated with porcelain tile and asphalt shingles are all modular in shape. All buildings are enclosed with porcelain tile and have large windows perforating the walls in strategical locations. For example the 25,525-square foot education structure contains academic classrooms that have generous windows, giving views of the campus and the residential neighborhood
The concept for such educational campuses is to create buildings that are to be inviting and supportive of our youth. The porcelain tile pallet used to create the images on this campus is innovative and lively. The buildings, strategically located around a single path are a backdrop for the teacher to teach ideas and the students to realize that there is a future. All of the spaces, exterior and interior, are organized to complement this goal.
The selection of porcelain tile by IMPRONTA ITALGRANITI is the symbolic design element in the entire complex. The colors, Topazio (goldish), Giallo (yellow), Granato (black) and Ambra (reddish tone) and size 16" x 16" were realized only after a major review of the variety of opportunities available. The purpose, and ultimately the success was to create a vibrant, cautiously poetic exterior that communicated with the student population the commitment of the public to encourage them to "love to learn". The facades of the various functions from administration to physical education act in a harmonious way to convey this single commitment.
The students in the past have had major problems. It is the intent of each student to gain knowledge in an ideal environment. The program, ultimately in this environment enables them to rediscover civility, pride in themselves and respect for others.The four hundred youths are the recipients of a unique educational experience that will enable them to succeed in todays society.