Fostering Educational Values

The McGrath Family Performing Arts Center at Loyola Academy embodies the essence of Jesuit educational values while igniting the creativity and imagination of students. A collaborative effort between school leaders, students, and the design team, the project was guided by Ignatian pedagogy, aiming to integrate the Jesuit mission into its architectural expression.

Campus Integration and Symbolism

Placing the addition on the northeast corner of the campus created a new outdoor space, fostering community engagement and reflecting Loyola’s ethos of inclusivity. The outdoor stage at the main lobby symbolically connects the project to the Chiesa del Gesù in Rome, emphasizing student expression and the sharing of arts with the broader community.

Architectural Elements

Central to the project is a 560-seat, state-of-the-art proscenium theater, facilitating educational programming and community engagement. The building’s design balances economy with uniqueness, employing a palette of local materials and a straightforward organizational layout. Unique architectural features, such as a balcony-level “bridge” and a curvilinear curtain wall, enhance the user experience and create moments of surprise and joy.

Sustainable Design

The material palette prioritizes simple, natural finishes, contributing to significant embodied carbon reductions and aligning with Loyola’s commitment to environmental stewardship. By embodying Pope Francis’ call to “Care for Our Common Home,” the project exemplifies Loyola’s values and serves as an educational tool in itself.

Cultural Impact

The McGrath Family Performing Arts Center has transformed into a cultural hub, attracting collaborations with outside non-profit organizations and enriching Loyola’s curriculum. Through its design and functionality, the center embodies Jesuit values and inspires creativity, fostering a vibrant arts community within the school and beyond.