The McNamara Alumni Center was designed to serve as an entrance and gathering point for the University of Minnesota campus. The unique shape of the space, designed by Antoine Predock and managed by KKE Architects, creates a variety of lighting design challenges.

In order to create an inviting environment as it is viewed from the outside, theatrical and recessed adjustable fixtures were utilized to provide illumination of the interior surfaces. Also, the building's historic "arch" was relocated to the lobby and accented with a light reveal.

This conference and presentation space is characterized by polyplanar surfaces of rich woods and metals. Flexible track lighting is integrated within gaps between finished ceiling elements. Grazing light, both up and down, glows perimeter walls and ceiling planes. Integrated room lighting and presentation controls provides for convenient user operation.

Schuler Shook specified the lighting control system that provides daily and special event settings to account for varying levels of daylight and individual control of the theatrical accent fixtures.