Helping Janus Development Center “Dream Big”

Tis’ the season of giving! We wanted to do something special this year, combining our passion with our talents. Our architects donated time and resources to develop a new master plan for Janus Development Center to help them grow with the demanding need. In 1993, the non-profit moved into the old O’Malia Food Markets office and warehouse facility in Noblesville. They’ve significantly increased their programs since then, which means their facility needs some major renovations.

Hamilton County has been a great client of ours, both in the private and public sector. We could not think of a better way to give back than supporting an organization that is vital to the community.

“I can’t even begin to tell you what a gift this is to us,” said Christina Sorensen, interim president and CEO of Janus Development Services in Noblesville.

Janus provides local individuals with disabilities the opportunity to participate and contribute to their community, whether it’s through employment training or independent living. Often times, students with disabilities graduate from high school and have very few options for employment. Janus’ work experience program helps smooth the transition from student to adult life, by offering a job coach that works with individuals to develop an employment plan.

 “We’re helping them better utilize their current facility,” said American Structurepoint Architect Mike Hoopingarner. “We have taken the existing site plan and showed them how it could expand with all of their open space. We also showed them how they could better use their space for things like training.”

We’re helping them “dream big,” as we measured the current space and came up with a master plan that helps them expand their services and programs.

“We recognized that giving back is much more than writing a check; it’s a contribution of our time, energy, talents, and passion,” said Hoopingarner.

The master plan is being completed by Hoopingarner and his team of designers, with the help of Applied Engineering and Reitano Design Group.  It includes several new features, including a commercial grade kitchen, which would allow them to teach job skills needed in the food service industry.

 “It’s exciting to see our vision for the future in this master plan,” said Sorensen. “Ultimately, it’s about flexibility in the use of our space, as we look to expand and help even more people in Hamilton County.”

Janus is currently working to raise the funds to complete the renovation in 2015. If you would like more information or you would like to make a donation, click here.

Happy Holidays!

Engineering-News Record Names Hoopingarner “Top 20 Under 40”

At American Structurepoint, we’re known for our quality projects and outstanding people. The proof is in this week’s announcement as one of our youngest architectural designers received a prestigious award. Design Director Brandon Hoopingarner was named ENR Midwest’s “Top 20 Under 40,” a regional award that recognizes young design and construction professionals who are reshaping their communities with their unique talent.

Brandon’s story is unique and his talent is unrivaled. Brandon always knew he wanted to pursue a career in architecture. Since he was young, Brandon would visit construction sites with his father and even tag along with him to work on the weekends.

“I’ve been exposed to the world of design my entire life,” said Brandon. “Of all the famous architects and designers in the world, I looked up most to my father.”

Twenty-nine years later, Brandon works right alongside his father. His life-long passion to shape communities through design landed him on the exclusive list of young professionals across the Midwest.

“I’m very humbled for receiving this honor,” said Brandon. “I’m also very thankful for leadership that puts faith in its younger staff and provides a framework for success.”

In a short amount of time, Brandon was taking on some of the group’s largest projects, including some international work. He represented American Structurepoint in an international design competition and presented the winning redevelopment concept to the board in the United Arab Emirates. He is also leading design efforts for large-scale projects across the Midwest, including the Lawrenceburg Event Center and the Michigan City Police Headquarters. Besides his professional accomplishments, Brandon is also actively involved in the community.

“My ultimate passion comes down to making Indiana and the Indianapolis community a better place to live, work, and play by incorporating design that is focused on and functions for the people who use the spaces,” says Brandon.

Brandon spearheads an effort with DREAM Alive to host a design competition involving Legos for 40 DREAM Alive scholars each year. He is a member of the Urban Land Institute, which aims to positively impact the development of the City of Indianapolis. He was an ACE mentor for two years, helping to engage and inspire high school students to pursue careers in architecture, construction, and engineering. And he volunteers for the Morning Light real estate committee.

The special “Top 20 Under 40” feature will be in ENR Midwest’s February edition. To check out the list of winners, click here.