Cornell Arts Complex

Cultural Enrichment in Joplin

Joplin, MO

With a goal to “educate, enlighten, and entertain,” the Joplin community came together to build a cultural hub in the city’s downtown district.

The $16.5 million Harry M. Cornell Arts and Entertainment Complex is the new home for Joplin’s Connect2Culture and George A. Spiva Center for the Arts. With high-end finishes and state-of-the-art engineering throughout, this 38,000 SF facility represents Joplin’s artistic spirit.

Crossland worked closely with the design firms, DLR Group and CGA to build a space that is as inspiring as it is impressive.

Investing in Our Community
As you enter the facility, prepare to be captivated by the extraordinary custom details and exquisite finishes throughout.

From the exterior boasting insulated metal panels with a striking shine, adorned with lead and zinc imitation fleck panels, to the interior adorned with a captivating array of upscale finishes, including state-of-the-art soundproof wall panels, unique millwork from Sweden, and ceramic tiles from Italy.

The facility encompasses a meticulously crafted soundproof area with sound barriers, ensuring a serene environment free from any outside disturbance.

As a feature element, a hangar door at the rear of the venue gracefully unveils an outdoor stage, providing an enchanting setting for outdoor performances.

The office spaces within this venue incorporate awe-inspiring glass that magically changes color from blue to pink as visitors gracefully stroll by.

This facility immerses you into a world of unparalleled artistry.

Challenging Lead Times
Overcoming challenges and maintaining the project schedule were crucial on this project. One particular hurdle involved the lead times for the materials. Both the exterior metal panels and the associated aluminum trim required a lengthy six-month lead time. To mitigate any delays, Crossland adopted a proactive approach by commencing work on the interior and roof before tackling the exterior.

To expedite the installation process, Crossland supplemented the workforce of the metal panel installer with their own employees, ensuring a faster completion rate.

Furthermore, the building site itself posed another obstacle. The parking lot and building were constructed on the grounds where houses once stood 50 years ago and converted into a parking lot utilized by Memorial Hall. Crossland had to remove the electric and sewer lines and properly fill the basements before they started, a very necessary step to ensure a solid foundation for the project.

Complex Solutions
The project also presented complexities with the extensive and intricate HVAC systems. The HVAC system had to be tailored to meet specific temperature and humidity requirements, which is crucial for preserving the valuable artwork showcased throughout the venue. Achieving the precise control parameters was a demanding task that required careful planning and execution.

Fun Fact: Crossland was able to include interns and apprentices from our in-house programs to successfully accomplish the concrete foundation work on the project.

The culmination of these efforts resulted in a remarkable venue that will inspire “people to live, work, play, and stay in Joplin.”

Project Facts

Industry Sector: Community
Cost: $17,500,000
Size: 46,000 SF
Delivery Method: Construction Management
Self-Perform: Finish Carpentry, Rough Carpentry, Steel Erection, Concrete
Owner: Connect2Culture
Architect: CGA Architects