HED, i.e., VAI Architects, served as Architect of Record while working in collaboration with STUDIOS Architecture for the state-of-the-art facility at University of Texas at Dallas, designed specifically for research and instruction of emerging media technology and visual arts. Among the first-of-its-kind, the Edith O’Donnell Arts and Technology Building is the embodiment of collaboration, creativity, and technology by integrating arts, science, computer science, humanities and engineering in multimedia communications.

The new 158,000 SF home for the arts and technology programs consists of a 3-story and 4-story structure linked by a 34,000 SF auditorium. This facility was designed to support eight broad groupings of education: design studios, instructional laboratories, research laboratories, faculty offices, meeting rooms, a 1,200-seat auditorium, administrative, building technology, and student support spaces.

Its architecture creatively expresses the school’s vision and goals while functionally supporting its educational purpose. Located in the student center of the campus, the design speaks to innovation, energizes the campus, and holds a prominent place on the main campus mall.