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As part of a system-wide improvement plan, CBLH designed a new Central Branch Library; relocating the building to the eastern edge of downtown Elyria. The 22,000 square foot building sits adjacent to the city’s Pioneer Plaza which allows it to take advantage of the open green-space in the center of an urban environment.
The new Central Branch Library serves as a vital primary point of information for the system by offering the largest collection of materials and access to adult, children’s, teen and senior programs from its new premier downtown location. The building features a spacious flexible library with specific areas for patrons to choose from such as a quiet reading room, makerspace, storytime rooms, private study rooms and a career center. A large 100-person seat meeting room with multi-media capabilities is included. The administrative offices are tucked behind the highly visible circulation desk which has views of both entrances, the entire library floor and the drive-through services window.
The exterior of the building respects the important urban location on which it sits and creates a new gateway to the city from the east. The choice of both cleft faces and smooth stone, as well as the vertical deep set windows that help protect the materials within the structure, resonate with the surrounding historic Elyria public buildings. The east and west entrances echo the prominence that has proceeded this building and give way into an modest yet open lobby featuring local artist work. The west entrance faces the main parking lot. It also extends to the north to create a covered walkway that will encourage pedestrians off of Broad Street and the green-space to enter the branch. The walkway will also feature a rotating collection of works created by local artists in prepared niches.
CBLH Design, Inc.
7850 Freeway Circle,
Suite 101
Cleveland, Ohio 44130
Mike is a director and project manager with over 19 years of architectural experience. His background in Quality Management provides him with a unique skill set and perspective that he brings to design and construction. Mike specializes in quality systems and prioritizes fostering a client-focused repeatable, continuously improving design system. He enjoys the entire process, from gathering data and generating creative ideas to implementing designs and crafting experiences in both new and reimagined spaces.
Mike began his career at CBLH Design over 36 years ago, specializing in the thoughtful design of spaces that enhance user experiences and improve patient outcomes. As a principal, he oversees all phases of development from inception to completion – ensuring that each project aligns with our vision as a firm. As a board-certified member of the American College of Healthcare Architects (ACHA), Mike holds accreditations in sustainable and evidence-based design. He values the relationships he builds with clients and colleagues and seeing the impact of his designs.
Jeff brings over 27 years of experience designing and managing a diverse range of projects. As a principal of CBLH Design, he leads the firm across multiple markets while fostering opportunities for staff growth, both professionally and personally. Jeff appreciates the collaborative nature of architecture and the interactions throughout the design process. He takes pride in witnessing how the final designs of projects resonate with communities and transcend generations.
Scott is a principal specializing in community-focused architecture. With 11 years of experience, his leadership and high energy bring enthusiasm and passion to every project. Scott’s role as principal helps clients connect to the space while creating a positive experience for the entire design and ownership team. He prioritizes community well-being to craft exemplary design responses that meet client needs.
Marc is a 1979 graduate of Kent State University where he received a Bachelor of Architecture. With over 40 years of experience, Marc has guided numerous projects throughout Ohio to successful completion and has directed the design efforts of the company since his hiring in 1985. His passion for design brings his knowledge of past experience together with the challenge of each client’s needs to create truly unique solutions.
His dedication for volunteering is evident in his involvement in many professional organizations as well as in his community. He is a current member in the Strongsville Chamber of Commerce, past board member of the Strongsville Schools Foundation and the American Liver Foundation, and a volunteer for the Arthritis Foundation.
Marc enjoys the competition of all sports and spends as much time as he can with his family. His wife, Jane, three adult children and a growing number of grandchildren make life exciting.
Favorite quote – “No man ever stepped in the same river twice, for it’s not the same river and he’s not the same man” – Heraclitus
Natalie Symon leads our Interiors department. She joined the firm in 1977 when Don Spice, founding partner, hired her on the spot. She began work the same afternoon of her interview and has been delivering vibrant and functional interior designs to CBLH’s clients ever since.
Natalie earned her degree at Massey College and holds NCIDQ (National Council for Interior Design Qualification) certification.
Natalie maintains the firm’s commitment to providing sustainable design solutions and also believes in incorporating natural spaces when possible. She holds a certificate of merit in Healthcare Garden Design and is a member of: the American Horticultural Society, Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) in the UK, as well as the Cleveland and Chicago Botanical Gardens. Natalie is also nearing completion of her final project from King’s College in London to receive her Certificate in Garden Design.
Outside of the office, Natalie enjoys spending time with family and her dog Kiki, the last of her show dog line. She is also an avid Equestrian showing horses in Equitation and Pleasure Classes (English Saddle Seat) year-round. When Natalie chooses travel, she enjoys visiting family and friends in Hawaii.
Brian is a native Clevelander and joined CBLH Design in 2009 after working in Los Angeles and Chicago. He is a registered architect in the state of Ohio and a LEED Accredited Professional through USGBC. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in 2004 and Master of Architecture degree in 2005, both from Kent State University. Brian enjoys movies, playing soccer and spending time with his wife, and two daughters.
Fun Fact: You’ll often hear Brian quoting movies as part of his regular vocabulary.
Patrick specializes in developing new client relationships and finding new project opportunities. As the firm’s Business Development Manager, his passion for teamwork and his ability to cultivate strong professional relationships are central to his success in his role. Throughout his five years with CBLH Design, Patrick has been involved in many organizations such as the Society of Marketing Professional Services (SMPS), focusing on engaging AEC professionals for leadership and learning.
With over 40 years of experience, Bill is widely recognized by his peers for his healthcare planning and design skills. Having previously worked for several national architectural firms, his portfolio includes a diverse variety of healthcare projects, including academic medical centers, community hospitals, and specialty care centers. His past clients include many of the country’s leading healthcare provider organizations.
Having lived and worked for the bulk of his career in Columbus, Bill now resides in Mount Gilead, Ohio. During his free time, he enjoys traveling with his wife, as well as piloting his sports car around the Mid-Ohio course in Lexington, Ohio. A lifelong amateur astronomer, he recently built an observatory near his home, where he enjoys taking colorful astrophotos and showing others the beauty of the night sky.
Marissa oversees the entire life cycle of architectural pursuit proposals from concept to creation, ensuring that timelines are met and brand integrity is maintained. Beyond her proposal work, she designs and implements both digital and print marketing strategies, produces collateral, manages social channels and assists with event coordination to enhance our firm’s visibility. With a passion for storytelling and understanding client needs, Marissa is able to craft narratives that effectively communicate our firm’s mission.
Nicole oversees CBLH Design’s business operations, ensuring efficiency while enhancing organizational performance. Nicole has been an integral part of the firm for 16 years, contributing significantly to its growth and success while valuing the collaborative spirit of her team. Her contributions continue to drive the firm forward, ensuring success and productivity in the office.
Luke is the firm’s drone pilot and project planner. During his five years with CBLH Design, Luke has been vital in various aspects of project development, including design, documentation, construction administration and project closeout. He utilizes drone (sUAS) technology to provide valuable marketing material and comprehensively analyze existing and new projects. A fulfilling aspect of Luke’s career is witnessing a project evolve from paper to a fully constructed reality and exploring the functional elements of the spaces he helps create.
Carolyn holds 11 years of experience as an architect and as a WELL Accredited Professional. She facilitates project documentation from design concept through construction permitting and administration, ensuring compliance with building codes and ADA requirements. Additionally, Carolyn contributes to interview graphics, particularly for existing condition analysis and has extensive experience working on new construction, renovations, additions and medical equipment replacements. She is dedicated to researching and resolving questions that arise, ensuring all projects meet current codes and regulations. Carolyn values the collaborative atmosphere of the industry and the collective effort to design the best possible environments for users.
Ramzey offers a fresh and unique perspective as a Project Planner. He plays a key role in project design, documentation, field measurement and rendering. Ramzey’s passion lies in creating spaces that enhance people’s lives- taking pride in his ability to positively influence others by designing functional and aesthetically pleasing environments. With a strong affinity for high-end design and a talent for architectural visualization through animations, Ramzey is dedicated to advancing his career toward becoming a registered architect.
Haleigh is a project designer for the firm. She brings a passionate interest across multiple market sectors, particularly hospitality projects. Observing the user experience from a unique perspective, Haleigh recognizes the vital role interior design plays in shaping lives. She strives to create environments that enhance how humans live and interact. An associate member of both the International Interior Design Association (IIDA) and the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), she is eager to immerse herself in the firm and looks forward to growing personally and professionally alongside our team.
Ray contributes 42 years of architectural expertise to CBLH Design. Ray excels in utilizing Revit and assisting the firm with its functions. As Senior Project Architect, Ray’s passion lies in working on diverse projects and addressing unique challenges, from the intricacies of detailing to implementing design concepts throughout entire projects. He is heavily involved in ACE Mentor Cleveland, introducing high school students to the Architecture, Construction and Engineering (ACE) industry.
Jonathan is a project planner for CBLH Design. In his role at the firm, Jonathan specializes in 3D modeling and rendering aspects of the design process. His approach to design is accompanied by his background in photography and game design, leveraging this unique skill set to create compelling visuals that effectively communicate the design story to users. His ability to integrate advanced 3D modeling techniques with his artistic talents ensures that each project is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
Erin is the firm’s lead interior designer with seven years of experience in creating innovative and functional spaces. In her role, Erin manages interior design projects from concept to completion, collaborating on programming and space planning, selecting interior finishes and completing furniture layouts and selections. She is adept at presenting interior concepts and selections to clients and stakeholders, ensuring their vision is brought to life. Erin enjoys witnessing a design concept evolve from an abstract idea into a tangible space for end users. Beyond her work at the firm, Erin is actively involved with the International Interior Design Association (IIDA) and serves as the Ohio/Kentucky Chapter VP of Communications.