The proposed design was long and relatively low to allow views and light for the adjacent buildings. The taller central pavilion housed the reception room and gallery keeps its distance with low connectors.

People would come and go in both cardinal directions, between Olin and the PAC, and across campus north-south. This design encouraged both routes, with a low-key ramp to accommodate the different building floor levels, and with glass doors front and back leading to appealing outdoor courts.

The glass wall on the south side exposes activity to lure passers-by on Church Street. It sat under a porch roof and was fritted to minimize the heat of summer while enjoying winter light.

The central reception space was announced on its sides by ‘stylus columns.’ It was a high, cubic space designed for gatherings, but small enough to feel comfortable for individual study or relaxation. Indirect daylight came in from all four sides and above to make it inviting. The lounge between reception and PAC had a lower ceiling, offering a second more intimate space that also accepted reception overflow.

The Gallery was a simple, but flexible, box. Art was always the focus of the room. A wood lattice ceiling hid mechanical ducts and minimized the visual impact of track lighting. The display walls had lightweight hinged partitions for alternate space arrangements. A single entry across from the monitor’s desk cut off daylight. The storage closet to the north was directly accessible to exhibit space.

The competition specified that the building would consist of around 3,500 square feet for one finished level to serve as the gallery and one below grade level for mechanicals.