A design by the UK’s Grimshaw Architects and North Carolina-based Little Diversified Architectural Consulting has won a competition for an art complex at Santa Monica College (SMC).
Located on Pico Boulevard, the duo’s proposal creates spaces that can facilitate new modes of learning, including versatile spaces for teaching, studying and relaxing.
The SMC’s Arts Complex opened in 1950, and is now at capacity across two separate buildings, which will be consolidated into one.
Andrew Byrne, a partner in Grimshaw, said: "We are honoured to be selected to deliver a new Arts Complex for Santa Monica College. This is an amazing opportunity to build upon and expand the reach of such a highly-regarded arts institution. We share SMC’s ambitions to create a flexible, adaptable community-minded space that facilitates collaboration and most importantly, makes people feel inspired and welcome."
Rita Carter, Little Higher Education Studio’s principal, said: "We strive to reach beyond architecture and into the heart of campuses and communities to create thriving environments that support student success, and we are thrilled to be working collaboratively with Grimshaw to provide Santa Monica College with a decisive, thorough and bold design approach to achieve the school’s aspirations."
Images courtesy of Grimshaw & Little
