Located just four miles from the ocean, the complex’s benign marine climate contributed to the main design idea. The theater and gallery, the two large spaces requiring highly-mediated environmental control and lighting, were placed at the core of the building. Wrapped around them are smaller, naturally-ventilated rooms and corridors that make up most of the building’s exterior. Because these perimeter spaces specifically have no air-conditioning, users are educated in controlling temperature through operable windows and become participants in the green agenda. The top floor consists entirely of artists’ studios, also naturally ventilated, which open onto outdoor terraces that double as extended work areas. The western facade has metal sunscreens and breezy exterior corridors with windows opening to offices. In the early phases of design wind-tunnel tests were conducted that resulted in the incorporation of air ducts that draw hot air through the roof, providing additional cross-ventilation and cooling. The building's overall energy-efficient design will have monetary and environmental benefits for the life of the building.

Built into a sloping site, the Arts Building is clad in brick veneer, concrete masonry and glass, which reference the materials that make up much of the surrounding campus. In contrast to the sun-control strategies of the west facade, the north facade is a composition of various forms of glazing. The lobby’s full-height mullion-less glass allows unobstructed views into the building, while above it floats a composition of clear, frosted and spandrel glass. The entrance plaza pavers are continued into the lobby, reinforcing the indoor-outdoor emphasis.