Grimshaw, in collaboration with Little Diversified Architectural Consulting as architect of record has unveiled the initial designs of the new 21,000-square-foot arts complex for Santa Monica College (SMC) in Southern California. The building will replace an existing car park and serve as the western "gateway" for the school.

Grimshaw worked closely with SMC arts faculty to create an open program that encourages cross-disciplinary discovery and engagement. "Working alongside the arts faculty of SMC to design a building that bolsters their visionary take on the importance of the arts in an evolving entrepreneurial landscape has been inspiring and energizing," said Andrew Byrne, a Managing Partner at the Grimshaw LA studio in a statement. "We are excited to work with such a supportive college to create this landmark building for the community."

The design is composed of three distinctive volumes that are linked by overhead exterior shaded spaces. The external circulation of the complex aids in ventilation and diminishes the needed load for air conditioning. Each of the three volumes houses one of three core pillars in the arts pedagogy of the school: studios, teaching spaces, and workshops.

Upon entry, users will approach an outdoor plaza that provides a buffer before students enter the main complex space. "The adaptable design for the new SMC arts complex will bolster our mission to bring students together to gain a greater exposure to the potential of the arts program," said Walter Meyer, SMC's Art Department Chair.