Marilyn I. Walker School of
Fine and Performing Arts
Brock University, St. Catharines
Originally a textile factory, The Marilyn Walker School of Fine and Performing Arts at Brock University combines an adaptive re-use of a heritage building with a new architectural addition, creating a vibrant hub for artistic education and performance. The building supports students, faculty, and visitors across disciplines in music, theatre, dance, and visual arts.
KDA designed an integrated brand identification, signage, wayfinding and environmental graphics program to unify the heritage and modern components of the building. The interior and exterior program balances bold, contemporary design with sensitivity to the historic architecture.
The program reinforces the Marilyn Walker School’s identity, providing a distinctive visual language that supports navigation and celebrates the building’s role as a center for artistic excellence.
Heritage Meets Modern
Identification signage for the new addition features individual pinned lettering in Brock’s signature red, while the heritage structure was treated with subtle resin panels to respect its original character. Together, these complementary approaches strengthen the building’s identity, enhance legibility, and create a clear and respectful dialogue between old and new.
Elevated
Identity
Brand Presence
KDA seamlessly integrated a bold red 24′ x 13′ sign, showcasing the brands of both Brock University and the Marilyn I. Walker School. The sign is set within the refined architectural design by Diamond Schmitt Architects and is backlit by interior lighting within the elevated two-storey glass facade, creating a striking and highly visible landmark.
New facilities of this magnitude have meant exceptional opportunities for faculty and students alike and the future development of our academic programs is profoundly matched by a building of equal measure, nuance and imagination.
Historic Layers
KDA developed an environmental graphics program incorporating historic black-and-white imagery that references the building’s past as a textile factory. Conceived as a series of layered storytelling moments, the program was designed to enrich the student experience by fostering a connection to the building’s history while supporting a unique and inspiring learning environment. The interior signage program builds upon campus-wide guidelines, ensuring consistency while reinforcing the building’s distinct identity.
