We can turn off the radio, we can walk past a museum, and we can choose not to write poetry. But we cannot avoid Architecture. Buildings form the backdrop for almost all of our activities: we live in them, work in them, shop in them, and learn in them. Architecture is part of the essential “food, clothing, and shelter” triad. Our experience of the built environment begins when we are young, with memories of our childhood home. It continues through all phases of our lives and becomes an important part of our life experience.
- NEW !!! An Architect’s Life – Learn what is involved in becoming an architect, what an architect does every day in their job, and all of the things an architect has to know about in order to create beautiful, comfortable and safe buildings. We will also have fun with a hands-on building project. (1 hour class plus materials)
- NEW !!! The Architectural History of Cleveland Part II (1931-Present) – Continue the fascinating journey through Cleveland history as seen through the eyes of architects and designers. Learn how the Great Depression and the rise of Modernism changed the face of our skyline. Students will learn not only about the buildings themselves, but also the stories behind them, and the architects who designed them. (1 hour class) This can also make a fun and interesting guided bus tour! Please contact us to discuss this option.
- The Architectural History of Cleveland Part 1 (1835-1931) – Step back through time from an architectural perspective and learn about the buildings that have helped to shape Cleveland’s skyline as well as its rich history. Students will learn not only about the buildings themselves, but also the stories behind them, and the architects who designed them. (1 hour class) This can also make a fun and interesting guided bus tour! Please contact us to discuss this option.
Building Styles of Cleveland Class – Learn how to recognize the characteristics of the prominent residential and commercial building styles in Cleveland. Students will learn about the materials and features that make each style unique, and how to identify each style as they drive around the area. (1 hour class) - Home Analysis Class – This class looks at ways people can adapt their homes to accommodate physical and mental health challenges due to age, illness, or injury. We will discuss specialty products and construction projects that help people live safely and comfortably in their homes. This can include things like making the bathtub easier to get into, installing door hardware that is easier to grasp, and special accommodations for those who are using a walker or wheelchair. We will study simple, inexpensive product options for earlier stages of adaptability; all the way up to more complex projects for later stages. We will explain how to make informed, cost-sensible decision as needs progress. This class is helpful for those who wish to stay living in their own homes (“Aging-In-Place”), as well as families who have someone with physical challenges living with them. (1 hour class)
FREE DOWNLOADS!
Simple Recommendations for Fall Prevention
Special Recommendations for People with Dementia
Watch the video
Judith discusses “Aging in Place”
on the Voice America radio show.
- Hand Drafting Class – For anyone who has ever wondered what it’s like to be an architect, this class will teach the principles of hand drafting and how to use drafting equipment. We will guide the students through practice exercises and then help them create a drafting project of their choice – perhaps house blueprints or drawings for a craft project. (6 weeks, 2 hours per week – 12 hours total)
- Life History Museum – If your building has an extra room or an extra corner in the lobby, we can create a museum display where people contribute artifacts or heirlooms from their lives, or artwork they have created. The stories behind the display items are written out, to explain their significance. This can be either a permanent or temporary installation; and it can be a changing display, where the items on display are varied throughout the year.
- Building Garden Structures – Beautiful wooden decks, gazebos, arbors, trellises, benches, and planters to help turn your community yard into an outdoor living room. We can even coordinate with landscaping companies to provide beautiful trees, shrubs, and plants to integrate into the design.
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All programs are available in-person or by video
All programs can also be done outdoors in nice weather or with overhead cover
