MBH Architects | November 7, 2024
MBH Architects is proud to announce the completion of The Phil Lesh Music Studio at Eastside College Preparatory School, a project developed in collaboration with the Good Tidings Foundation and full-service contractor WL Butler. This 900-square-foot music studio is designed to inspire and empower underserved students in the East Palo Alto community, continuing MBH Architects' longstanding partnership with the Good Tidings Foundation.
In 1965, Phil Lesh and his bandmates formed the iconic American rock band, the Grateful Dead, just a few miles from where this studio now stands. Known for redefining the sound of the bass guitar, Lesh's legacy is intended to inspire a new generation of musicians who will utilize this space.
Returning to Eastside College Prep, where MBH previously designed the LeRoy Neiman Art Studio, the new Phil Lesh Music Studio pays tribute to the founding member of the Grateful Dead. The psychedelic design of the studio captures the innovative spirit of Lesh and his contributions to music, creating a vibrant environment for students to develop and explore their musical talents.
This project marks the fourth music studio MBH Architects has designed for the Good Tidings Foundation. Previous studios include the SDYAMA Music Studio with Jason Mraz and the Arts Music Studio in partnership with Jason Mraz, as well as the Sara Studio at the Boys and Girls Club of the Redwoods in Eureka, themed around Sara Bareilles. MBH has also designed numerous art studios for Good Tidings across the United States.
Key Architectural Features:
Hall of Fame Wall: Adorned with Grateful Dead posters and memorabilia, celebrating the band's storied history.
Color and Murals: The studio features a vibrant color palette of purples, blues, and black, with tie-dye wallpaper adding a psychedelic touch to the walls.
Custom Elements: Custom millwork cabinets provide functional storage solutions.
Functional Spaces: The studio includes a music practice area with a backdrop mural of a stage, a classroom area delineated by the existing curve of the flooring and ceiling accents, a music recording studio, a drum room, and a storage room.
Students are greeted by a musical practice area upon entering, setting the stage for a creative and inspiring experience. The classroom area is thoughtfully separated by the curve of the flooring, with painted ceiling accents further distinguishing the space.
The Good Tidings Foundation, established in 1995 by Larry Harper, former scouting director for the San Francisco Giants, is dedicated to creating arts education and athletic spaces for children in underserved communities. This latest collaboration with MBH Architects is another step towards fulfilling that mission, providing East Palo Alto students with a state-of-the-art facility to nurture their musical and educational aspirations.