The Fine Arts and Commerce Building at Indiana State University is a WPA Art Deco structure originally designed by local Architects Miller and Yeager. Rich in interior and exterior materials and dedicated by First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, the building has unfailingly served the University and Terre Haute Community since 1940, playing an important part in the development of young aspiring artists and musicians. While some of the artistic teachings have changed from hands on to digital in their expression, the building still plays an important role in launching students into creative careers and driving artistic expression into the Terre Haute Community.

The 67,000 sf renovation was built upon three main concepts:

INTEGRATE THE BUILDING INTO THE ARTISTIC CAMPUS COMMUNITY

Through long-range Master Planning, ISU has developed a dedicated Fine Arts Quadrangle, which the Fine Arts Building has previously abutted, but didn’t address. By developing a light-filled glass atrium overlooking this Quadrangle, the building is now an important and integral part of the campus dialogue with respect to the teachings of Fine Arts. To emphasize this role, the atrium space also features 3 large scale beautiful glass artwork panels created by an ISU student, faculty member and alumni thoughtfully displayed on the walls next to areas for communication and collaboration and overlooking the Plaza.

HIGHLIGHT THE ORIGINAL HISTORIC FABRIC

The building had much to say historically, with the original Main Entry Hall to the North, rich in plaster, brass, brushed aluminum, marble, terrazzo and wood ornamentation as the main entry and focus of the facility. Also of significance are the marble and terrazzo stairwells that provide open access and sweeping views of the upper floors. All of this fabric was restored and when juxtaposed against more modern finishes took on an ever more important role by grounding the facility in its long and storied past.

TRANSITION FROM HISTORIC TO CONTEMPORARY

With the original Historic Lobby to the north and Contemporary Atrium to the south, the transition between the two eras of construction was made by designing the new main transparent corridor. Flanking this glass-filled space is the student-run gallery (the Turman Gallery) on the west side counterbalanced by The Community School of the Arts which is located on the east side, effectively highlighting both the University and Community aspects of the instruction occurring in the building. Butt-glazed construction opens up views into these two functions as you navigate through the structure.