Fred Lazarus IV Center
The adaptive use of a 1915 warehouse signifies the Maryland Institute College of Art’s (MICA) latest foray into revitalizing its local community and stimulating the development of Baltimore's arts and cultural life. The building, recently renamed to pay tribute to former, long-time President Fred Lazarus IV, was transformed from a non-descript warehouse into an anchor institution in a gritty neighborhood. Inside, the previous jumble of studios and isolated art departments was re-envisioned so that students, faculty, staff and the public have places to interact and collaborate.
Historic Renovation
Inviting entry
- By providing open access to the street, MICA creates a lasting impact in the community, encouraging interest and interaction.
- Large windows to the street provide a glassy new accessible entrance that opens to art galleries and cafe space.
MICA has played a critical role in revitalizing its neighboring communities and in stimulating the development of Baltimore's arts and cultural life. Each of its facilities has creatively strengthened Baltimore and the College. The Graduate Studio Center project will not only mean cultural and economic revitalization for Station North; it will also be a huge boost to Baltimore's ability to position itself as a national center for creative innovation.
Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, Mayor of Baltimore
Redevelopment Catalyst for an Emerging Arts District
- As part of the Station North Arts & Entertainment District, MICA is bringing significant artistic activity to an area scarred by long-term disinvestment.
- MICA's investment turned a bricked off building into a showpiece for the neighborhood. This sketch of the proposed entry illustrates how open, interesting, and accessible the building was to become.
Entry Details
- A communicating stair brings natural light deep into the building.
- This entry detail plays with the influence of light on a logo, brightening one surface, throwing a shadow on another, and reflecting on a third.
- The cafe houses a second restaurant by a local favorite. The colorful evolution of Station North continues even in these small details.
State of the Art Technology in an Historic Warehouse
- The 130-seat auditorium is used for guest speakers, lectures, and community events.
- Flexible public spaces - central on each floor - provide space for informal crits.
- The digital media lab supports technology that integrates digital modeling and control into sculpture and other artwork.
