Media & Immersive eXperience Center

Design Strategy

The resulting solution required extensive structural demolition and restructuring of original historic structure to turn 2 disparate spaces into one, opening shuttered exterior windows, and the creation of interchangeable display zones - allowing the department’s extensive collection to finally come out of “hiding”.

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The design incorporates large scale movable walls in the center of the main gallery - with minimal cross bracing in place of the intrusive masonry shear wall - capable of sub-division or expansion at a moment’s notice. The gallery is flanked by deep display walls that invite visitors to a close up look at artifacts, a place to sit, and an opportunity to contribute to the exhibit with open alcoves and pin up space.

 

The doubling and opening design concept also included the adjacent Conference Room where SHESC now has room for larger presentations directly engaged with gallery exhibits. The Innovation Gallery remains open and accessible to the entire Tempe campus with lounge and gathering space on the east side, while the west portion remains secure and open as exhibits require. With a clear path toward faculty visions for an expanding curriculum - the space has become a canvas for student work and provides infinite new learning possibilities.