Concept Design
Imagine an inspirational, state-of-the-art, custom-built facility where studio art education is accessible to everyone.
Imagine a place where local residents can flex their creative muscles and train their brain for innovation.
Imagine a space that fosters friendships between every age group and no one is on a screen.
Exterior
Located along a high-traffic, gateway corridor, the exterior is designed to ignite the imagination and curiosity of those who pass by.
The design incorporates natural materials that reflect the different mediums taught inside the building: metal, wood, earth.
The roof-line captures indirect north light and direct solar energy, reducing the environmental footprint of the building.
Covered kiln and forge yards are partially visible from the multi-use path, helping draw attention to the activity happening inside the building.
A rooftop patio maximizes the view of the Flatirons and provides a private outdoor event space.
Large windows give glimpses of each studio in action and garage doors allow indoor-outdoor movement.
The design creates a standout facility from both the neighborhood and highway sides.
Interior
Interior floor plans include:
Gallery: an open lobby for exhibitions and events includes a small support kitchen
Ceramics: a large open studio for hand-building and wheel-throwing + separate areas for glazing, storage, and kilns
Blacksmithing: an open studio for cutting, welding, and forging
Woodworking: bench area for hand-tools and construction + a machine area for cutting and shaping
Glass: kilns for slump & fuse work + fully-equipped stations for torch work
Printmaking: open studio with presses and worktables + a darkroom for screen processing
Events: rooftop terrace with Flatiron views + dedicated parking lot becomes a gathering plaza
Flexibility: a large conference/teaching space for meetings and programs
Accessibility: universal access throughout the building, including an expanded elevator and single-occupant gender-neutral bathrooms
Offices: administrative space to accommodate increased staff
Storage: in-studio storage for each art form + basement storage for event supplies
