Grassell Academy of Art - The Beauty of the Intersection of Precast Concrete and Glass

This three story Grassell Art Institute, designed by Stephen Hall, covers an area of 93765 square feet and creates state-of-the-art studios and vibrant social spaces. The BBVA Compass Roof Garden and adjacent Brown Foundation Square also provide certain services for the school's expanding needs and unique combinations of students of different ages.

The Grassell School of Art covers an area of two acres, adjacent to the Lillie and Hugh Roy Cullen Sculpture Garden designed by Isamu Noguchi, and has updated its facilities built in 1979. With the expansion of scale and the increase of courses, the enrollment is expected to increase from 7000 to 8500.

The L-shaped architectural layout limits the two boundaries of the square. A stepped circular theater forms a sloping, accessible roof outline, and the square extends all the way to the rooftop garden.

The exterior walls are composed of 178 unique precast concrete panels, creating a beautiful rhythm, while the alternating 170 glass panels provide ample natural light for all studios and classrooms.

A three story wide stepped forum activated the indoor space of the school.