Jury comments: This project is a retrofit of a dark, unwelcoming 1960s visual and performing arts building on a large public university campus. The focal point of the design strategy was light. By carving out the central portion of the building for an atrium gallery space and adding clerestory windows, the once fortress-like structure is now a light-filled beacon. We appreciate the unified composition of all the facades, which come together with a scenography effect that is very beautiful.
Client: James Madison University
Consultants: Clark-Nexsen (Prime Architect and Architect of Record); Skanska USA with Nielson Builders; Arts, Crafts & Theater Safety; Ripman Lighting Consultants; Jaffe Holden; Froehling & Robinson; Construction Cost Systems
