Oregon State University’s Patricia Valian Reser Center for the Creative Arts, or PRAx, bustled with activity during a grand opening in early April. Visitors enjoyed art installations, live music and theatrical performances throughout the day-long celebration.

Designed by Holst Architecture with signage by Mayer/Reed, the new campus centerpiece is home to a concert hall, black box theater and art gallery, as well as classrooms, studios and labs. Sophisticated yet understated, the signage system plays with depth, translucence, reflection, sheen and contrast to amplify the drama taking place within the venue.