A once-vacant warehouse at 126 South Buchanan Street will soon become the new permanent home of Basin Arts and Dirk Guidry Art Studios.
The Lafayette Public Trust Financing Authority (LPTFA) is leading the redevelopment, transforming the building into a cultural arts facility that brings creative life and community activity to the heart of downtown Lafayette.
126 South Buchanan Street
This project is part of a bigger plan to reshape LPTFA’s warehouse campus into a cultural gateway for downtown. The goal is to create a community-driven arts hub that blends creativity, culture, and connection. It’s about more than renovating buildings—it’s about rethinking how these spaces can support Lafayette’s creative economy and serve the people who live and work here.
Renderings by Vermilion Architect
“This project is a celebration of vision, partnership, and possibility,” said Alexander Lazard, Executive Director of LPTFA. “We’re not just executing a warehouse adaptive reuse project—we’re making a bold investment in Lafayette’s creative economy and delivering on our mission to transform underutilized spaces into engines of inspiration and opportunity. Basin Arts has led the way in nurturing artists and activating community through the arts, and we’re honored to support their next chapter.”
The new Basin Arts headquarters, serving as the permanent home for this multidisciplinary arts organization, will feature gallery space, rehearsal and performance areas, artist studios, and flexible workspaces that support everything from dance to visual art and community programming. Basin Arts, known for its innovative approach to nurturing creative talent and engaging diverse audiences, has played a pivotal role in Lafayette’s cultural scene over the past decade. As part of the project, Basin Arts will also take on creative placemaking across the campus, including public art, free events, festivals, and long-term strategic planning to ensure the space remains active and inviting.
Renderings by Vermilion Architect
“This new home allows us to deepen our mission and expand access to the arts like never before,” said Clare Cook, Founder & Creative Director of Basin Arts. “As we celebrate our 10th year, this partnership with LPTFA is a dream realized—proof that investing in the artistic process fuels not only creativity, but economic development, neighborhood pride, and community transformation.”
Artist Dirk Guidry will also have a permanent home in the facility with Dirk Guidry Art Studios, adding another layer of creative energy to the project. Dirk Guidry, a prominent local artist celebrated for his vibrant abstract works and large-scale public art installations, has long been a driving force in Lafayette’s art community. His studio has served as both a creative workspace and a public gallery, showcasing original artwork and hosting exhibitions that capture the dynamic spirit of the region.
Renderings by Vermilion Architect
“This redevelopment anchors our art community in a visible, accessible way,” said Dirk Guidry, artist and founder of Dirk Guidry Art Studios. “It’s not just about having studio space—it’s about building momentum, inspiring others, and showing that Lafayette is serious about supporting its artists and cultural entrepreneurs.”
The building sits next to SchoolMint’s headquarters and the Downtown Convention Center, making it a key piece in a larger vision. LPTFA is working to turn its full warehouse portfolio into a creative district that connects artists, entrepreneurs, and the public in meaningful, lasting ways.
Construction began in November 2024, and the doors are expected to open in September 2025.
For more info about Basin Arts, check out their website at https://basinartslafayette.com/.
For more about Dirt Guidry Art, check out his website at https://www.dirkguidry.com/.
