"HOPE"

As an island of wealth in a city with tremendous need, Tulane University after Hurricane Katrina found itself with an opportunity to remake its image and how it defines its’ place in New Orleans. The university developed one of the nation’s most robust community involvement programs and the architecture faculty re-examined the school’s purpose and priorities. In early 2014 URBANbuild completed it's 4th of what are now 20 projects, each focusing on unique sets of goals, challenges, and opportunities. Project number 4, at Seventh and Saratoga Streets, received an LEED Silver energy efficiency rating and achieved a new level in hurricane preparedness. French-born artist MTO painted these crossed fingers on the project as a symbol of Hope for the future of the community of New Orleans.