Transforming the USC School of Communication and Journalism

The Wallis Annenberg Hall is the most technically advanced collegiate multi-media facility in the country. The state-of-the-art media centerpiece features technology-rich classrooms, collaboration spaces, private offices, 148-seat auditorium, broadcast studio, advanced multi-media center, expansive editing center, central forum encompassed by open stairs, and Italian bistro-style grab-and-go café.

“This new facility will enable us to expand innovative teaching, research and service, and spark a new era of creativity among faculty and students.” –Ernest J. Wilson, Former USC Annenberg Dean

Comprehensive Modeling

Bernards utilized Building Information Modeling (BIM) as a tool to partner across disciplines from design through construction, which effectively changed USC’s program and project delivery methods into a new replicable and scalable process that enhances stakeholder design decision-making, streamlines the construction process, and facilitates maintenance activities. The integrated BIM process that we initiated in the project’s early planning stages continued through construction, deploying subcontractors with a thorough understanding of the work, maximizing constructability and quality control, improving trades coordination, minimizing change orders, and pinpointing optimal maintenance access areas.

Creating Educational Connections

The four-story atrium at the main entrance is designed to encourage conversation and collaboration; media-saturated classrooms and laboratories provide students with the latest equipment and resources. At the heart of the building, a 20,000 SF state-of-the-art digital newsroom showcases student programming, live broadcasts, and social media.

Awards & Recognition

ENR Best Projects Awards – Higher Education Award of Merit