Is CSU doing anything to Marshall Law School. It's seems to be in pretty good shape but I heard they were considering an expansion/rennovation.

See http://www.csuohio.edu/architect/projects/index.html for more details.

Thanks for all the info and renderings Musky!  There is lots of exciting stuff happening at CSU.

There appears to be, as in the overall master plan, no plans to further extend main classroom to euclid. That being said, master plans change and this is probably neither the first nor the last mater plan.

 

The stairs that are fronting chester is a good thing. Currently its where all the parking is at, and there is no conivienient way to get into the campus.

1) You have to go underneath rhodes tower to get to one, and its sorta hidden

2) You take the eleveator thats located unerneath Main classroom

3) You go in the garage in main classroom to find a stairwell or take the freight elevator there.

Stairs create a more friendly entrance to the campus on that side. Plus, to the north is the only way the campus can really expand into, so it would make sense to make that area as nice as possible.

 

Marshall law school they plan on making new entrances that front euclid better. Overall the plan for exsisting buildings is to make better, more obvious entrances into the campus.

 

I like the doan electric building renderings, they tore down a bit of it (red part of the building) so I thought they were getting started on something. Turns out it was for more parking. I hope with the doan electric building they dont pave over and rip out the brick alley there, it makes it quaint looking.

 

 

^Pretty pictures!

Now, how actively is CSU pursuing private developers to tackle these housing projects? Or are we still in the "dreaming" phase?

There appears to be, as in the overall master plan, no plans to further extend main classroom to Euclid. That being said, master plans change and this is probably neither the first nor the last mater plan.

 

Marshall law school they plan on making new entrances that front Euclid better. Overall the plan for exsisting buildings is to make better, more obvious entrances into the campus.

 

 

The CSU Master Plan may or may not actually identify it, but trust me... the new Student Center will indeed be built to Euclid. It will also be built at grade to accommodate ADA requirements. The Main Classroom Building is not on being rebuilt in the near or long-term.

 

Marshall Law School:

 

"Description of Work: Partial demolition / renovation of non-contiguous spaces within the existing Law Building constructed in 1977. Project program area is approximately 35,000 square of space including new Euclid Avenue Lobby, elevator and stair tower; reconfigured general use classrooms, restrooms and the inner-link walkway along the north facade of level 2: Construction of trial courtroom, legal clinics, and faculty offices on the east wing of the lower level; replacement of approximately 39,600 square feet of roofing, building code updates as necessary including upgrades to fire suppression-protection systems, lighting and electrical systems, mechanical and plumbing systems, structural systems and architectural enhancements to the building.

 

Construction Start Date: January 2007

Scheduled Completion Date: December 2008"

 

 

 

^Pretty pictures!

Now, how actively is CSU pursuing private developers to tackle these housing projects? Or are we still in the "dreaming" phase?

 

Fenn Tower is being developed by a private developer

I'm pleased with the Law School news...ironically, they could end up with a more appropriate, urban-oriented building than the Levin College (urban affairs) across E. 18th!  More power to them!

 

Again, I will voice my desire to see the greenspace in front of Levin developed as a more usable and inspiring plaza...

 

On a side note, I spent a little time browsing some U. of Cincinnati (my alma mater) threads this week and was left feeling a little disappointed in the speed and scale of our construction.  We're seeing some really positive things on campus right now at CSU and the plans look great, but UC has just completely changed the makup of its campus over a 10 year period and I don't see that happening at CSU.  Also, for better or for worse, they've got development spilling over into the neighborhoods. 

 

Perhaps it's because of the sheer size of the school or because of their landlocked site, but the differences between our planning and development efforts and theirs has crossed my mind more than a few times.  I'm not asking for signature architects, but I am asking for projects of a scale that will actually change things around here and build momentum.  I see those projects on the horizon, but it still seems to be a ways off...

 

Again, I will voice my desire to see the greenspace in front of Levin developed as a more usable and inspiring plaza...

 

 

A department head in the Urban Affairs College told me there is/was a standing committee for art, or something like that, and they had discussed on numerous occasions about the space next to Urban. However they have not met in over a year. She said there were things planned - art and programing.

When I use to work in the building , we had picnics there at least twice a year and I know the University has used it during the Plaza construction and probably will be using it and the street much more once the University Center/Main Classroom construction starts.

 

As far as time schedule, I couldn't agree more. I am under the impression there are numerous developers chomping at the bit to develop more, but they are waiting for a final decision on the Innerbelt first. When the University finished its master plan, they set it up to be implemented in five phases. (see the following)

 

(from http://www.csuohio.edu/campusmasterplan/implementation.html)

First Phase:

The first phase of work includes projects that have been funded and are currently in design development:

Soccer field:

The soccer field needs to be rebuilt with artificial turf in order to withstand the rigors of the varsity soccer teams, including the women’s soccer program that will be in place in the Fall of 2004.

Howe Mansion restoration:

Howe Mansion is being restored as the new location of the Graduate College, scheduled for completion in Spring 2006. The facility will have a first floor conferencing and reception center.

Administration center:

A new administration center with a first floor restaurant is being designed for a site on Euclid Avenue, adjacent to Howe Mansion. The scheduled completion date is Spring 2006.

Recreation Center:

Design is underway for a new recreation center, attached to the front of the Physical Education Building on Chester Avenue. The facility is scheduled for completion in Fall 2006.

Daycare: A

daycare center could be privately developed and operated within the new Recreation Center, serving the CSU community and the general public.

Fenn Tower: Fenn Tower needs to be rehabilitated for student housing before Viking Hall can be demolished, freeing up this site for new development.

 

Second Phase:

The second phase are projects that have funding in place but are still in pre-design planning.

Bookstore/Student Union:

The new bookstore and Student Union are likely to be located in a combined facility, consisting of the remodeled University Center Building and the first floor of the main classroom. As an alternative, a new building could be constructed on this site to house the bookstore and Student Union. The key to this site is that it is centrally located on the campus with the main entry on Euclid Avenue.

Parking structure (just east of new Recreation Center):

Parking demand on campus necessitates the construction of at least one new garage. Current parking revenues are sufficient to fund this structure, which will serve the eastern end of campus and the new Recreation Center and a future College of Education.

New housing at Euclid Avenue and East 24th Street:

The first phase of this development could happen in the near term, in conjunction with the redevelopment of Fenn Tower. The later phases utilize land that would become available if the Euclid Avenue ramp is eliminated as part of the planned Innerbelt reconfiguration.

 

Third Phase:

The third phase of development does not have public or private funding committed, but are governed by external timelines and will have significant catalytic effects on subsequent development:

Euclid Ribbon:

It will be most cost-effective to implement Euclid Ribbon landscaping improvements in conjunction with the Euclid corridor project, tentatively scheduled to begin in Fall 2004 and be complete by 2007.

Relocation of Academy of Court Reporters building to immediately adjacent parcel:

The relocation of this building would simplify the Euclid Avenue/East 22nd Street intersection. CSU does not have a controlling interest in the property but the building could be relocated as a privately-funded project or as part of a City-supported effort to implement the previously developed Collegetown plan for Euclid Avenue. If relocation is not feasible, the building could be redeveloped with a mix of housing, retail, and office uses.

College of Education:

A facility for the College of Education is urgently needed to accommodate growing academic program needs. The design and construction of a new College of Education can begin when funding is in place and a final site has been selected.

RTA Transit Center:

The RTA is seeking funds to construct the Transit Center and has selected an architect, but a final determination needs to be made on the location.

Parking structure (above the new transit center):

This structure will be needed to replace parking spaces if Z Lot is used for the Transit Center development.

Fieldhouse (above the new transit center):

CSU needs a fieldhouse to support its athletic programs and to reduce the demands of varsity athletics on the new Recreation Center. A fieldhouse is perhaps a lower priority than some of the other third phase projects, but the opportunity to build the facility in conjunction with the Transit Center may increase the project’s short- to mid-term feasibility.

 

Fourth Phase:

Fourth phase projects rely on development in the third or previous phases to go forward.

Varsity Village:

The Varsity Village includes baseball and softball fields, a reconfiguration of existing tennis courts, and new housing north of Chester Avenue on University-owned land currently used as surface parking lots. As such, the Varsity Village development cannot occur until two to four structured parking lots are constructed replace the existing surface parking. The construction of the north/south spines at East 19th and East 24th Street should coincide with Varsity Village development.

University Commons:

Since this project will remove a bay of parking from the Main Parking Facility, new parking structures in the previous phases must be completed before this project can go forward.

Viking Hall site:

Once the 450 dormitory beds in Viking Hall are replaced with new student housing in Fenn Tower and elsewhere on campus, Viking Hall can be demolished to allow for new residential development with ground floor retail. A University-owned historic building could be incorporated into the development and an adjacent privately-owned property could be acquired to expand the development area.

 

Freestanding projects, can happen whenever funding is available.

This includes University projects as well as private sector development in the areas adjacent to campus. In these areas where CSU does not own or control property, the University can set the stage for new development by establishing strong connections to new and existing campus amenities.

Law School Addition/remodeling:

Preliminary plans have been prepared for this project, which is needed to improve the appearance and accessibility of the Cleveland Marshall College of Law.

Art Gallery/Theatre addition and sculpture court:

An entry addition will increase the visibility of this important campus amenity.

Music Court:

A music court in front of the Music and Communications building will establish an outdoor performance space on Euclid Avenue, creating a setting for University events and attracting the public to campus.

Faculty Club:

A possible location for a faculty club is the Bakers’ Union building, which is just east of the Law Library. CSU is acquiring and could rehabilitate building, which has existing dining and catering facilities.

Faculty/Staff incubator:

Rehabilitating all or part of an existing building, such as the Doan Electric or Norton Furniture building would create work space and laboratories for the independent businesses of CSU faculty and staff. Additional space could be constructed to accommodate these businesses as they grow, or to house other research or technology transfer businesses that would benefit from being located near the University.

Convocation Center expansion:

The Convocation Center could be expanded to the north, creating additional office space for the Athletic Department, a CSU team shop, and an athletics hall of fame.

Enhancement of existing open space:

Retrofitting existing landscaped areas to increase active use and link them into a campus green space network will improve the quality of campus life.

Private-sector mixed use development:

Housing and retail will occur at the periphery of campus to serve the CSU community as well as the general public.

 

As you can see, we are well into the third phase.

 

Fenn Tower is being developed by a private developer

 

Yes, but what about the Chester-Doan housing? Is that being developed in collaboration with a private developer?

Fenn Tower is being developed by a private developer

 

Yes, but what about the Chester-Doan housing? Is that being developed in collaboration with a private developer?

 

Is that a project that is starting soon or just one of those long-term pretty pictures on the master plan map?

I think they are waiting on the new parking garages they are building before they begin replacing surface lots with housing.

Can anyone identify the crane in this pic? I'm guessing it's for the Parker Hannifin Admin Building? I took the photo last weekend from the Innerbelt:

 

That would have to be it!  This is a disorienting perspective, but that's the only crane working over there right now...

MayDay, that angle is throwing me off a bit, but yes, that's for the administration building being constructed at Euclid and E. 24th, next to Howe Mansion. Quite a thrilling sight, isn't it? :)

 

D'oh! MGD beat me to it...

Something that keeps surprising me is that the university plans to tear down Viking Hall somewhat soon after Fenn Tower is completed...  Correct me if I'm wrong, experts!

 

This seems to be counter-productive, unless Viking Hall is in such bad shape that it needs to be torn down.  Otherwise, I would say leave it, build a little park in front of it and keep building your other on-campus residential options.  Then, in 10 years or so, if you have to tear it down, no biggie...  As it stands, it seems like they need to keep all the on-campus housing they can!

 

Comments?  Musky?  Guv?

As of now, that is the plan. But that is quite few years away.

I remember when it was a Holiday Inn.

I stayed there on a blustery winter night when I shipped off to the Air Force around 1987.

 

Next week I will post some pictures of the Parker Hannifin site work. (I am home right now and do not have access to them)

Something that keeps surprising me is that the university plans to tear down Viking Hall somewhat soon after Fenn Tower is completed...  Correct me if I'm wrong, experts!

 

This seems to be counter-productive, unless Viking Hall is in such bad shape that it needs to be torn down.  Otherwise, I would say leave it, build a little park in front of it and keep building your other on-campus residential options.  Then, in 10 years or so, if you have to tear it down, no biggie...  As it stands, it seems like they need to keep all the on-campus housing they can!

 

Comments?  Musky?  Guv?

 

I remember when Viking Hall was the Holiday Inn.  The place was hideous then...I can only imagine what shape it is in currently. Although I do one found memory involving a hot nerd, pizza, and a basketball player after leaving Chapter Two :drunk: :drunk: :drunk:

As promised, pictures:

I just created a photo set of pictures from the inside of Fenn Tower. I hope they retain as much of the old architecture as possible. There is some incredible detail in there.

It can be viewed here:

 

 

Wow, thanks for the pics Musky!  That's certainly not your average college dorm! 

Hold on there Cowboy.

Don't get too excited.

I just added more pictures showing a mock-up of one of the rooms.

This mock-up is currently available to view on the eight floor.

It does not look anything like what the rest f the "pre" pictures show.

When I was in there, the beams that were up for drywall looked to me as if they would be covering up much of the detail.

I do think they will restore the common areas though.

OK, that's like 10 times nicer than my freshman year dorm, but your right, no architectural details.  We could've seen that coming, though.  I think it's important that they preserve them in the common areas, but it may be a bit much to worry about them in these new rooms.

 

They're supposed to have retail and classroom space in the building as well, correct?

That is correct.

There is going to be come sort of non-Aramark Deli on the ground floor with access to an outside eating area and classrooms for the College of Education.

someone earlier remarked about the proposed design of the new student center in regards to the potential of a "signature" architect designing this key cornerstone of the campus.

i can only tell you that csu is looking into it, but is a bit worried about the risk associated with it - especially in regards to maintenance issues.  i.e. the gehry building at case which has police tape around it all winter....

 

I think that Rhodes tower is enough of a "signature" building. ;)

 

I wouldn't mind a signature building, but I would be happy enough with a strong urban design that foments street life.   

I was killing time downtown yesterday, and swung by CSU to view some of the progress. A few projects appear to be moving along quite well, and when all phases are completed I'm sure it will be a huge improvement. I am most puzzled and concerned about the commercial buildings along Euclid Avenue. They are absolutely horrible, and I don't understand why it would be so difficult for the city and university to tackle this strip immediately. This space could very well be redeveloped to complement Playhouse Square which is right next door and to serve the campus better. To me it seems like a developer would want to jump on the opportunity to draw on a university market, because the market NEVER leaves. Students come and go, and the customers are revolving, and I see this as a benefit, because the market never really gets tired of the tenents. I witness this first hand at my university in a college town. I don't understand why it is so difficult for urban school's like CSU or CWRU to have their own "college town" districts.

Absolutely, "good" architecture and urban design are by far more important to me than "signature" buildings.  I'd rather not see another Gehry in Cleveland anytime soon.  What I'd love to see is an expression of good Cleveland-based architecture on Euclid that could represent the current wave of new construction on campus for years to come.  Something from Westlake, Reed, Leskosky, for example, that will last for generations and embody Cleveland...not something from an international "starchitect" that will be an island unto itself and have nothing to do with its context.

In other news, from the link that the Guv posted on the Euclid Corridor thread: http://euclidtransit.org/timelines/images/PublicArtMasterPlan.pdf

 

Pages 11-13 talk about opportunities along the CSU stretch of the EC.  In particular, I was drawn to the mention of a Levin College plaza with a water feature, wi-fi, movable chairs, kiosks, etc.  Pretty much what I'd love to see there!  Maybe I haven't given the powers-that-be at CSU and RTA enough credit in planning for the future...they could just be holding out to see what they can do in conjunction with the EC.

 

That said, isn't it about time to get on that?  I know the EC will be cutting out a bit of the sidwalk (and the trees) in front of the Levin College, so how about coming up with that plan for a plaza and building it so that it's ready in time for the opening in 2008?

The little retail does serve the students somewhat, I agree I don't quite understand why there isn't more there however. Few places to eat, art gallery (featuring stuff made by students?), art supplies store, printing shop (they take up alot of space, but do they belong?), book resale store. I cant think what is needed, but my gut feeling something is missing like a drug store/convenience store.

Yeah definitely bookstores and a few 24-hour sit-down restaurant (other than Mc Donald's). Maybe some sort of discount store to cater to the broke College student. Not sure if there is a 24 hour coffee shop down there. As mentioned above a 24-hour drugstore. Really just stores that are practical and opened extended hours if not 24 hours a day.

Vulpster03:

and I don't understand why it would be so difficult for the city and university to tackle this strip immediately.

To me it seems like a developer would want to jump on the opportunity to draw on a university market,

 

Developers are ready and waiting. Trust me.

They are waiting for two things: First and foremost, they are waiting for the EC to be finished. Nothing brings business down like construction (perception wise, that is). Especially for a new business. Second, many developers are concerned about the innerbelt project and the impact it will have on the immediate area.

 

Mister Good Day:

Absolutely, "good" architecture and urban design are by far more important to me than "signature" buildings.  I'd rather not see another Gehry in Cleveland anytime soon.  What I'd love to see is an expression of good Cleveland-based architecture on Euclid that could represent the current wave of new construction on campus for years to come.  Something from Westlake, Reed, Leskosky, for example, that will last for generations and embody Cleveland...not something from an international "starchitect" that will be an island unto itself and have nothing to do with its context.

 

I agree with you on the most part. We need to remember one thing though, CSU is not Case (public vs. private) The state rarely, if ever, will pay for a signature piece of architecture. Westlake, Reed, Leskosky is doable for me as are most things from City Architecture.

 

 

 

Pages 11-13 talk about opportunities along the CSU stretch of the EC.  In particular, I was drawn to the mention of a Levin College plaza with a water feature, wi-fi, movable chairs, kiosks, etc.  Pretty much what I'd love to see there!  Maybe I haven't given the powers-that-be at CSU and RTA enough credit in planning for the future...they could just be holding out to see what they can do in conjunction with the EC.

 

That said, isn't it about time to get on that?  I know the EC will be cutting out a bit of the sidwalk (and the trees) in front of the Levin College, so how about coming up with that plan for a plaza and building it so that it's ready in time for the opening in 2008?

 

 

Good suggestion. I'll ask.

The Art Plan is from 2003. It would be nice to see an update or project status. I know there were calls for proposals last year, but I have not heard anything about it since then.

I thought the whole EC was going to be a WiFi Hot Zone. Anybody?

(off topic comment - I wonder how feasible it would be to "plug-in" all of the lightpoles on the interstates with WiFi. Someting I wondered about for a couple of years.)

 

Meanwhile, I found a Marshall Law Building conceptual that shows how they want to open up the Euclid Avenue side of the building.

 

 

^If that's the same awful reflective glass that's used on the Levin building, they shouldn't even bother. However, if they're using something more transparent, I'm all for it.

great!  I'm not thrilled about more reflective glass, but I do like the idea of bringing the entrance to Euclid.

 

Also, about the signature architects...how does Cincinnati pay for its projects?  Probably the same way as CSU does.  What do they have on campus?  Henry Cobb, Peter Eisenman, Michael Graves, Frank Gehry, and on and on.  Again, I don't want these predominantly stand-alone structures to be the norm for CSU, but I'm just pointing out that they were able to leverage the funding for these buildings which cost much more than they needed to.  I know it would take a Peter Lewis (who is CSU's most wealthy/philanthropic grad anyway?) to finance one of these on most campuses, but that's not what I'm asking for.  I just want good architecture that fits its context and serves its function well. 

 

I think we're on the right track, but we need to ensure that we do our best for current and future generations of Clevelanders and CSU students.

Mayday:

That picture was the next step from a drawing. It is only a concept.

The only reason the law building is on tract to be redone is because of Lerner's (?) donation

 

MGD:

Good points. I do believe Cinci and OSU's significant buildings were funded with a hefty private donation. You should see the architecture school in OSU. The outside of it is covered in marble shingles. I don't know who did it.

^I think Iris Wolstein was the one who made the donation to the law school for the lobby and facade renovation.

You are correct. Thanks.

 

here is a picture of the OSU Knowlton School of Architecture

 

That said, isn't it about time to get on that?  I know the EC will be cutting out a bit of the sidwalk (and the trees) in front of the Levin College, so how about coming up with that plan for a plaza and building it so that it's ready in time for the opening in 2008?

 

I agree.  The potential is too critical to pass up.  Perhaps the CSU students on this thread could discuss that project at virtual levin?

It would be a good discussion to have there as it would demonstrate the potential of VL to professors and eventually other students.  I realize it is more difficult to conduct there, mainly because of habits, but I think in the end (if the discussion ever ends), we would be be very glad we did.  Any takers?  Pretty Please....  http://virtual-levin.urban.csuohio.edu/

Sorry, CSU urban students only at this time.

Thanks Guv.

 

Also, if you have a CSU ID, spend about 15 minutes filling out theStrategic Plan Survey that can be accessed through CampusNet. They are giving away a bunch of prizes. Much of what is being discussed in this thread, as well as a few others, should be considered in the planning process.

Big news on CSU and EC. There will be a meeting on it next Thursday.

However, I will only post about it in Virtual Levin.

^No fair!

Out of curiosity, is one required to have a CSU ID to go to the upper floors of Rhodes Tower? Say for... taking some photos?

 

Or even better... if any CSU employee here on the forum can get me access to an upper floor (with views to the west, preferably in the morning) of Fenn Tower, I'll buy you a six-pack of your drink of choice  :-D

 

Anyone who can help, please PM me. Thanks!

I've taken pics from up their before.  The concrete "vanes" on either side of the windows, coupled with the thick, dirty and distorted glass makes it not so great for that purpose.

One of the floors has a computer lab for math in rhodes tower,15th floor. I dont know if it has windows, or you could get in without ID or some type of passcode. A friend of mine said he got on the roof once, but I think he just happend to get lucky. That all being said, most of Rhodes is teacher offices and grad student offices, if you get ahold of someone, maybe they can get you in one of them. Say its for photography class or something :)

The law school concept looks pretty bad.  For that matter, so does the OSU architecture school.  Dramatic architectural statements are not always dramatically pleasing to the eye.

Only problem, smackem - I don't think I could pass for a collegiate any more - hmm, but a grad student... that's an idea!  :wink:

mayday,

 

anyone can access rhodes tower.  the elevator shafts are a bit confusing, so i would recommend the stairs as it will give you the added bonus of being able to see the windows on each floor.  i believe the 5th or 7th floor has a nice view.

 

but hey, regarding a great photo spot, try the 7th floor of the new federal courthouse tower.  the lunchroom (public access) has great views west and north along the river while a rear 7th floor patio/garden has great views looking south along W. Huron.  if you've never been, the building is well worth a visit!

Great tip Guv!

 

I was going to add, MayDay, that there's no security check to get into Rhodes Tower.  It's kind of strange, come to think of it, that the tallest building on a State-owned campus...and a university, no less...has no security check in.  Many college campuses these days have ID checks at all doors of their buildings...hmmm.

 

Anyway, you can get in, but like X said, the windows are narrow and DIRTY!  I was just trying to get a view out of the windows at WCSB (9th floor) and they're filthy, set back and only one opens in the whole station...bummer.

 

Good luck!

"but hey, regarding a great photo spot, try the 7th floor of the new federal courthouse tower."

 

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I was under the impression that cameras weren't allowed in the courthouse tower. Mind you when I took a hardhat tour, they didn't a rat's patooty.  :?

Here are some new Recreation Center pictures to look at: