Columbia College’s Media Production Center by Studio Gang Architects

Architect’s rendering of Columbia College Chicago’s Media Production Center (MPC). Designed by Studio Gang Architects, one of Chicago’s hottest firms, the 38,000 square foot MPC features a transparent facade and an innovative design. The $21 million MPC, which includes two sound stages, a motion capture studio, animation lab, classrooms and space for production design and costumes, is the first new construction project for the college. The building is expected to open during spring term 2010.Columbia College’s new media production center combines large film and animation studios with classrooms and workshops on an urban campus. As the first new building for Columbia College, it will provide the facilities to fortify the school’s competitive edge in film-making and animation, as well as highlight the College’s design-forward identity.Light is used to animate movement throughout the space, calling attention to the connection between the choreographing of architectural space and the medium of filmmaking. The primary façade on State Street is activated by a double-height projection/ viewing area and various types of classrooms and production areas, linked by a ramped circulation route. The plan is organized to maximize use of indoor and outdoor space to the advantage of film-making and viewing, and also provide space for students in different disciplines to interact.The building is on track for LEED Silver certification; it will feature 50% green roof area and will strive to promote more sustainable practices in both building and film-making.Source