McCoy Wixen Architects unveiled its design for the Otago Polytechnic Art School upgrade at a site meeting on Friday.
"The project is in the closing stage of the design phase; we are getting down to the nitty-gritty," Mike Waddell, communications and customer service general manager, said.
The school would receive the addition as part of a $6 million upgrade, which would also include the relocation of the Catering and Hospitality School from Tennyson St to Forth St.
It was hoped the extension would allow for more practical teaching and learning space for students, staff and researchers, Mr Waddell said.
The twin-level annex would be added next to and linked with the school's Block P, near Anzac Ave.
It would include a new entry, tutorial room, gallery and flexible studio space.
"It's a really good use of the space while also integrating with the existing buildings," Mr Waddell said.
Tenders for the construction were due in three weeks, he said.
"We will wait to see what they come in at to see where we are at."
Building work was due to start in early August.
Completion was set to coincide with the start of the academic year in early February 2009. - Ellie Constantine