The design objective for this 80,000 sq ft project was to provide a vibrant, inspiring environment for creative learning. The institute is brought to life by its students and the interior design creates a motivating backdrop for their creativity.

The Art Institute of Vancouver’s design courses, which include interior design, fashion, graphics, animation and media arts, were previously taught in 3 separate locations, and the new campus houses them all in one purpose built two storey building. The building is scheduled for occupation in 2 phases. The first phase, consisting of 40,000 sq ft, opened in June 2009, and the second phase will open in June 2010.

The central hub of the school is the atrium which extends from the main entrance at the south to the north end of the building, with a broad central stair leading to the second floor. Designed to display the activities of the school, the atrium provides a welcoming reception and circulation area. The Art Institute’s gallery is also open to the atrium next to the main entrance and the modern, clean lines and simplicity of the design provide a calm ambience for the school’s showcase.

The classrooms, which adjoin the atrium, have extensive glazing allowing the classroom activities to be visible. These classrooms have no exterior windows due to the deep footprint of the building, and this glazing allows daylight to enter the classrooms from glazing in the atrium roof. The institute’s library also adjoins the atrium at the north end, with full height glazing at the entrance.