Steel Plant

Marist University's Fashion and Art & Digital Media Programs are located in the Steel Plant, designed by the renowned architect Robert A.M. Stern. The project expanded the existing 12,000 square feet of studio and learning space with a two-story, 35,000-square-foot addition, providing students with spacious studios and learning areas.

The Steel Plant expansion is designed to match other Marist buildings with a Hudson Valley industrial-modern style, incorporating brick, steel, polished concrete, terrazzo, corrugated metal, and tile. Inside, students enjoy a variety of spaces, including digital labs, fashion studios, the Maker Lab, fashion exhibition gallery, student-run MPorium Boutique, Winter Garden, and art gallery.

The Steel Plant Art Gallery plays an important role in student learning, giving them practical experience in the art world. Students who work in the gallery not only assist in daily operations but also learn valuable skills. They create promotional materials such as posters and postcards for exhibitions, install artwork, guide visitors, work with guest artists, and manage promotional efforts. This hands-on experience simulates real-world jobs in arts administration and curating exhibitions.

Additionally, the Steel Plant incorporates technology into its educational programs, including unique courses like MicroManufacturing and Digital Patternmaking. Here, students gain practical skills using modern equipment typically found in the fashion and digital media industries.

The state-of-the-art building also boasts key local connections as well. Several areas of construction materials were locally sourced and the café in the Steel Plant’s Winter Garden features products from local companies, reinforcing a strong connection to the Hudson Valley and local community.