LCAD Breaks Ground on the New Innovation Center

Laguna College of Art + Design (LCAD) has officially broken ground on its new Innovation Center, a pivotal development that signifies the beginning of a transformative $100 million capital campaign aimed at shaping the college’s future and securing it for the next 50 years.

The project was made possible by a generous $40 million donation from Mr. Pat Quilter, founder of QSC Audio and Quilter Labs. This contribution stands as the largest philanthropic gift in LCAD’s 64-year history and serves as the cornerstone of the college’s campus consolidation efforts. Quilter’s commitment to innovation and education will leave an indelible mark on LCAD and the broader community involved with the College.

Scheduled for completion in 2026, the two-story, 22,000-square-foot Innovation Center will become the centerpiece of LCAD’s Big Bend campus. Designed to bring all academic spaces onto the Big Bend Campus, the Innovation Center will foster interdisciplinary collaboration and hands-on learning, the facility will house:

• Digital arts classrooms equipped with state-of-the-art technology.
• The Roland Print Lab, generously provided by Roland DGA Corporation.
• A 3,000-square-foot multipurpose exhibition space for student and faculty showcases.
• Climate-controlled art storage to preserve and protect LCAD’s Permanent Collection.
• Indoor and outdoor event spaces to host workshops, lectures, and community gatherings.
• A café offering a collaborative space for students and faculty.

This facility is poised to empower students to experiment, create, and push boundaries, thanks to cutting-edge technologies, resources, industry collaborations, and opportunities to explore bold, new ideas. The future of creativity starts here.

On Sunday, September 21, 2025, the LCAD community gathered at the Big Bend campus to celebrate this historic milestone. The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by faculty, staff, board members, city officials, and Mr. Pat Quilter, all united in their support for LCAD’s vision. Laguna Beach Mayor Alex Rounaghi and LCAD Board Chair Jared Mathis joined President & CEO Steve Brittan in commemorating this significant event, followed by inspiring words from Mr. Pat Quilter.

The Innovation Center represents more than just a physical space; it embodies LCAD’s commitment to providing students with the tools, environment, and opportunities to thrive in an ever-evolving creative landscape. As the first phase of the $100 million capital campaign, this project sets the stage for future developments that will continue to enhance the educational experience at LCAD.

With the support of visionary donors like Mr. Pat Quilter and a dedicated community, LCAD is poised to lead the way in art and design education for the next 50 years and beyond.

Learn more about the Designing Futures campaign and join the New Era of Creatives!