FIDM, Orange County

Category

Education

Location

Irvine, CA

Year

2002

Area

53,000 SF

Photographer

Benny Chan/Fotoworks

In relocating their Orange County campus, FIDM sought an exuberant architecture which would support and enhance the learning experience. In addition to accommodating 200 students and 50 staff, the school possesses a large collection of valuable books, garments and fabrics.

The campus is a student-centered educational institution built on a ‘village’ plan that connects all aspects together, making individual parts of the school’s operations visible to users. Utilizing the idea of a loop punctuated by functional ‘events’, the different aspects of the school are tied together. Bright colors infused into the floor finish, seating, and millwork reflect the exuberance of the fashion world, while classrooms are a neutral white and grey. The college was a hit with students, staff and visitors. Since its completion in 2002, student enrollment has increased 400%.