Art and Architecture Renovation

This expansive wing addition was designed to transform the relationship between students and faculty with a focus on communal and collaborative spaces. While studio spaces still account for much of the active space in the building, large gathering spaces have become the heart of the school.

One of the most notable areas is the building’s large two-story commons. Surrounded by a series of spiral-like stairs and ramps that create perambulatory sequences designed to create encounters between faculty and students, the commons is designed to be a place where the school’s community can meet. It is also large enough for major events and installations, so there is room for faculty and students to display large-scale works.

The project team was challenged to fit the University’s programmatic needs within a defined budget that made the project economically viable. Initial estimates at schematic design came in 16 percent over budget. A thorough value analysis process allowed the team to make minor modifications and still retain the highly regarded architectural design elements, ultimately delivering the project under budget.