LLB Architects renovated two classrooms in Alger Hall for the Institute for Cybersecurity and Emerging Technologies (ICET). Our challenge was working within the tight footprint and low floor-to-floor heights while providing good sight lines to a 24′ video wall. The compressed space meant that a standard front-facing desk layout would not work. Instead, we arranged irregularly shaped pods and large wall monitors around the room in a multi-directional layout. This configuration fosters group work and allows faculty to circulate freely and interact with students. The ICET instructors deemed this innovative solution a significant improvement over the initially intended standard layout.

Serving as a multi-purpose gathering space for Community Preparatory School’s network of students, teachers, and families, the new Arts and Athletic Center significantly expands extracurricular activities. The versatile building features indoor basketball and volleyball courts, an art gallery and display walls, and a performance and backstage production area. The gymnasium is a dynamic, multifunctional space that seats up to 240 people at circular tables for meetings or meals. With a full seating capacity of 700, the Arts and Athletics Center offers the necessary, comfortable, and accessible space for the school’s tight-knit diverse community to gather for graduations, celebrations, school-wide shows, and athletic events.

LLB Architects addressed a variety of design challenges in our efforts to align this project with immediate and long-term campus development goals. Our proactive overall site management involved lot consolidation strategies, accommodations for future expansion of the soccer field, and contextualizing the building within the neighborhood and community. The lot is bounded by streets on 3 sides. The 1-story building entrance connects with the residential- and pedestrian-scale street, while the larger gym and theater volumes were sited at the intersection of busy vehicular streets. The vibrant colors on the theater box represent the exuberant, multicultural students and faculty, and has been described playfully as a technicolor dreamcoat or LEGO house.