MacEwan University's old orange-clad arts campus at 100 Avenue and 156 Street will be emptied beginning on August 1, when faculty and staff are set to begin their move to a brand new glass building at 104 Avenue and 110 Street. The $181 million project covers 430,000 square feet of space with five floors of technology, classroom and performance areas augmented by a retail component, proscenium theatre, recital hall, art gallery, and a restaurant.

The near-complete MacEwan Centre for Arts and Culture, image by Forum contributor Daveography

The new MacEwan University Centre for Arts and Culture consolidates the programs currently offered at the west-end campus, a process which has been in the works for years. Serving as an entrance landmark to the downtown campus and the city as a whole, the new building features a contemporary and light-filled design by Bing Thom Architects and Manasc Isaac.

Landscaping work is ongoing, image by Forum contributor Daveography

The multi-toned exterior glazing evokes the black and white pattern of piano keys, with green accents providing a pop of colour. An informal network of learning, performance and gathering spaces are sheltered within the two main atria, which are transected by a web of suspended staircases.

MacEwan University Centre for Arts and Culture, image by Forum contributor Daveography

Photos by Forum contributor Daveography indicate the level of work achieved so far, with the building looking mostly complete. Landscaping and public realm elements are now coming together ahead of the quickly arriving delivery — classes have already ended at the old facility, which is now owned by the City. The building is expected to become a not-for-profit hub for arts, recreation, wellness and learning.

A rendering of the multi-storey atrium, image via Bing Thom Architects

Additional images and information can be found in the Database file linked below. Want to get involved in the discussion or share your photos? Check out the associated Forum thread or leave a comment in the field provided at the bottom of this page.