CANstruction is a national community service project among designers and representatives of the construction industry that benefits millions of hungry people.  Each team designs and builds a themed structure made entirely from canned goods paid for by donations.  The Richmond area competition helps to supply the Central Virginia Food Bank.   

This year marked Cornerstone Architects’ second year of participation and we were ready to blow the competition out of the water!  But in order to do so, we needed the support and contributions from our Richmond area friends – and we got it!  We were able to raise over $1700 for the purchase of canned goods to help the Central Virginia Food Bank, which in turn will feed many thankful Richmond residents during this holiday season. 

This year’s theme, “It’s Harvest Time…Fall!” gave us an opportunity to bring to life a scene from a Halloween classic, It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown.  The competition was steep though, and included such imaginative and creative structures as the University of Richmond stadium and a harvest moon, among others.  However, they were no match for Cornerstone’s glowing jack-o-lantern and lounging Snoopy, and we took home the most coveted prize – Juror’s Favorite!  In total, all the teams were able to donate over 8,000 cans to the Central Virginia Food Bank.

If you would like to offer a gift, please deliver to the Red Cross at 420 East Cary Street, Richmond, VA 23219 or mailed to POB 655, Richmond, VA 23218 by December 19th. Red Cross information 804-780-2256

With the help of Cornerstone Architects, Pouncey Tract Veterinary Hospital in Glen Allen, VA wins a Merit Award in the 2008 Veterinary Economics Hospital Design Competition. Owner, Dr. Brad Zubowsky, is also awarded best hospital in the 6,500 square-foot and smaller category.  

The hospital is designed to have strong visual appeal on all four sides so it matches the style and character of the neighborhood. The outcome is a building looking more residential in character than a typical veterinary hospital. 

Cornerstone is currently working witht the Historic Jackson Ward Association to design and implement a set of new “Gateways” in the Jackson Ward area.  This is a conceptual image of what one might look like (pictured at the intersection of Chamberlayne and Jackson streets).  Let us know what you think!

Rick Peterson and I worked with HCA’s Johnston Willis Hospital to develop a conceptual design for a new Neurology ICU unit.  This proposed eight bed unit would replace the existing first floor ICU unit and allow for a higher level of patient care.   We presented a concept to administration helping them to decide whether to move forward with this project or not.

For my own curiosity, I would be open to hearing your own ideas or experiences with ICU units you may have worked on - either from a design or administrative perspective.

Working with James Doran Company (www. jamesdoranco.com) Cornerstone Architects begins phase I of Midlothian Town Center. This is a 35-acre, mixed-use development located at the intersection of Midlothian Turnpike and Winterfield Road in Chesterfield. This first phase of the 200,000 sf project has 30,000 sf of retail and an outparcel.