The City of Pasadena has approved a new master plan for the ArtCenter College of Design that will steer the school's development and expansion over the 15 years.
Future growth is expected to occur at ArtCenter's South Campus, located at the corner of South Raymond Avenue and East Glenarm Street. Current offerings at the property include three office buildings - including the former U.S. Postal Service facility and the repurposed ex-headquarters of Jacobs Engineering. Over the coming years, designs by Michael Maltzan Architecture call for the construction of a series of eight-story buildings that could add as many as 1,500 student beds to the property. The new construction - as well as the renovation of existing buildings - would also bring other elements to the campus including art galleries, classrooms, a library, and a 300-seat theater.
Approvals grant some flexibility to ArtCenter's plans, and allow for some of the new buildings to be used as academic space rather than student housing, depending on demand.
The campus, which is bisected by the Metro's Gold Line, will be woven back together through the construction of an elevated quad and a pedestrian bridge over the train tracks. The quad is depicted as a park-like space replete with fitness equipment, community gardens, and outdoor seating. Plans also call for a cycleway through the campus.
ArtCenter's Hillside Campus, which is also included in the master plan, will not see an increase in developed space. Instead, the 156-acre property at 1700 Lida Street is slated for cosmetic and functional upgrades, including the enclosure of its open-air Sinclaire Pavilion and the addition of solar panels to its parking lots.
“This is mission-driven growth informed by the College’s conservatory-like approach to education,” said Lorne M. Buchman, president of ArtCenter College of Design. “We’re very pleased the city unanimously supports our vision to provide a talented and diverse student population with the educational resources they need to develop their professional and personal voice. In doing so, the College will affirm our position as an institute of higher learning in a city known for innovation, art, culture, and science.”
