December 6, 2013 College Building, Knoxville Star of AIA Film,‘Problem Solving through Architecture’

The American Institute of Architects selected AIA East Tennessee from chapters across the United States for a re-positioning grant to teach how critical thinking skills are developed using the local built environment and design process.

The resulting film, “Problem Solving through Architecture” showcases our city and college, offering insights to life in Knoxville and the halls of the Art + Architecture Building. It also explains the many skills achieved through the acts of design, something every student of our college learns, whether in architecture, landscape architecture or interior design. Watch the full film here:

The Art + Architecture Building was selected as one of the four featured structures for its achievement as a living, learning laboratory of design. The building, completed in 1981, demonstrates functionality, spatial relationships, and environmental issues. It houses photo labs, studios, a woodshop, print shop, computer lab, gallery, metal shop, technology studio, and auditoriums. Its most impressive interior feature is its atrium, which runs along the central space of the 360,000 sq-ft building. Designed by Bruce McCarty and his son Doug McCarty, it was envisioned to promote an open, collaborative environment. Students of our college praise the interdisciplinary learning environment of the A+A, a space that becomes more than a place for classes, but a community center for design. Learn more: