On August 16, 2018, a District panel interviewed and evaluated the proposals of four highly respected architectural firms for the Fernway project: Perspectus Architecture; Weber Murphy Fox (WMF); ThenDesign Architecture (TDA), and Van Auken Akins Architects (VAAA). The panel recommended the selection of VAAA for the project, and Interim Superintendent Dr. Stephen Wilkins endorsed the selection.
The District panel was supported by the expert participation of Dr. Stephanie Ryberg-Webster, an Associate Professor in the Levin College of Urban Affairs at Cleveland State University, where she directs the Master of Urban Planning and Development program and the college's Historic Preservation Certificates. She is also a Shaker Heights resident and the parent of a Fernway first grader.
The panel also evaluated and accepted a proposal by Robison Building Analysis, LLC. This firm will complete a limited post-fire damage assessment and structural analysis of the limestone. Dr. Elwin C. Robison, Ph.D., a registered professional engineer and architectural historian, may also serve as an expert peer reviewer to the project as needed.
The public adjusters of the Alex N. Sill Company served as technical advisors to the panel. The Sill Company will inform the insurance carrier of the District's selection.
The work of VAAA begins immediately. More information about the design and construction process will be provided as developed.
