INNOVATIVE EDUCATIONAL DELIVERY
affluent world that sat at the other end of the bio-medical corridor pointing to the downtown skyline. Changing the vision and expanding horizons began with a pre-cast concrete shell that could have been another stark warehouse or manufacturing facility. The goal was to use this vocabulary in a new way that celebrated surrounding elements and represented them in a new way. Sealed concrete floors from the surrounding warehouses took on a new meaning when they were offset by the clean lines of aluminum-framed glazing and entry systems; crisp dywall partitions contrasted with the soft tones of wood trim and doors. The metaphor of doors opening to new opportunities was expressed, again through contextural components, such as using all- glass, roll-up doors resembling a familiar oilchange chain as the component that opens the learning and cafeteria space to new experiences beyond. It was also important to recognize the power that color plays in the context and lives of Vision Academy students. The design team borrowed from the colors that defined the population and incorporated them into the fabric of the building. Interior transparencies, ample use of natural light, and security vestibules help reinforce the feeling of safety and security as well as create a nurturing environment for experiential and transformational learning.
Paramount School of Excellence The Paramount School of Excellence is located in another part of the urban core of Indianapolis. Its context is very different from Vision Academy. It is also located in an area of high poverty that had originally been part of the suburban band of middle class, blue-collar neighborhoods that served a manufacturing base that has since deteriorated. The Paramount School of Excellence, also a charter school, is contextually based, but draws from a much broader, globally oriented base. In contrast to Vision Academy that strives to change the vision of individual students from within their respective environments, the Paramount School of Excellence strives to inspire its students to transform their environments. The transformation responds to a more agrarian, environmentally conscious, globally inspired context. The
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EDUCATIONAL FACILITY PLANNER | VOLUME 49 | ISSUE 2&3