The Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex, located in Joplin, MO, is a collaborative effort between Connect2Culture and Spiva Center for the Arts. The facility, designed by DLR Group and CGA Architects and built by Crossland Construction Company, spans 37,000 square feet and features state-of-the-art galleries and a 450-seat hall for spoken word, cinema, musical, comedy, and local opera performances. The hall is centrally located within the building for optimal acoustic isolation and easy access from front and back of house support spaces.
A dynamic design highlighted by two different IMP profiles
Kingspan insulated metal panels were used for the exterior envelope of the Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex. The project used two types of Kingspan panels: Optimo Smooth and KS Micro-Rib.
The flexible design of the space allows for reconfiguration of the floor, seating, acoustics, and proscenium opening, enabling it to become a larger single flat floor space that can host a wider range of uses, including art exhibits, trade shows, receptions, and other special events. The stage and hall open to a naturally sloped event lawn that creates an amphitheater for outdoor cinema and theater programming that can be used separately or in conjunction with indoor programming.
The building features multiple terraces on the south facade, creating a lively visual interplay with the site and a sense of sidewall boxes that, along with the enveloping landscape, makes the outdoor space feel like an outdoor theater "room". The landscape has been contoured and reinforced to serve as a common community flexible green space for additional programming or community events. The front and back of house support spaces for all art functions are shared, making it more sustainable and enabling the community to experience the full range of programming in both intentional and coincidental ways.
Kingspan insulated metal panels were used for the exterior envelope of the Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex. The project used two types of Kingspan panels: Optimo Smooth and KS Micro-Rib. These panels were used as part of the exterior cladding system and helped to create a dynamic relationship with each other that juxtaposed sleek, smooth Optimo panels with textured KS Micro-Rib panels.
The multiple finishes and textures on the metal skin of the Kingspan panels created a uniquely dynamic interplay with both ambient and direct natural light, which was similar to the effect that occurs naturally with lead and zinc, reflecting the heritage of mining for lead and zinc in the region that initially gave birth to the city of Joplin. Additionally, Kingspan insulated metal panels provide superior thermal performance and helped to achieve the energy efficiency goals of the project.
Overall, Kingspan insulated metal panels played an important role in achieving the design goals of the Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex, both aesthetically and functionally.