Sustainability is a cultural movement taking shape and changing the way we live. In building a cultural center that increases the knowledge of sustainable practices for the Baton Rouge area, the most important consideration is audience. In order to make an impact on society, the building should attract the correct audience.
In saying this, I have taken a less obvious turn on green design through the building’s aesthetics. Since the purpose of the building is used to educate, impact, and change society, I have made the entire building to accomplish this through its artistic concept. Inspired by the contemporary street art of Banksy, Hyuro, and C215, the center’s concept and presentation is a critical aspect of culture. Like street art, Baton Rouge Cultural Center takes what is real, available, and currently happening in its setting, makes a statement and becomes part of the town’s culture.
The entire building, interior and exterior, follows the process of LEED. Shipping containers to build BRCACC’s frame, LEED approved materials, daylighting, the building and site, and community connectivity were all specially designed to form a functional, sustainable, and aestically innovative cultural center for downtown Baton Rouge, LA.