The University of Southern California has completed an expansion of Gayle Garner Roski School of Art and Design in Los Angeles.
The first phase of the project included 15,000 square feet of offices and classrooms. After the initial occupancy, the university realized an immediate need for more space, and built an additional 10,000 square feet, including 18 student studios and an expanded professional gallery.
The school’s three graduate degree programs are now together in one space and have opportunities for cross collaboration with state-of-the-art amenities to the artists, designers and scholars. The expansion also enables the school to present arts programming and public events within the Arts District neighborhood in Los Angeles.
The reception area sets the tone for the entirety of the space with natural elements and clean lines complemented by a neutral color palette. Spotlighted by track lighting, visitors are met by a gallery that showcases the students’ talent.
Natural elements such as continual concrete floors are conducive to the school’s artistic environment, and the students’ art along the walls remains an important focal point. An open-concept floorplan with 18-foot ceilings and vast lighting fixtures transform the space into a modern artistic haven.
Because of the sensitive nature of the art inhabiting the space, proper lighting and heat control was crucial to keeping the integrity of the students’ work. The workspace includes 4-foot-by-8-foot desks and multiple areas to enrich the learning experience.
These spaces include two modular classrooms along with a maker’s space featuring various equipment such as laser cutters, 3D printers, and an equipment checkout area.
The exterior environment inspired many interior elements of the school, including the dichotomy of old and new and the industrial façade distinct to the aesthetic of the arts district.
Ware Malcomb provided interior architecture and design services for the project.
