Skip to main content
Add as a preferred source on Google

Florida High School Renovates Performing Arts Center

  • By Matt Jones
  • 04/26/22

Construction recently began on a series of renovations and expansions to the Visual Performing Arts (VPA) Center at Booker High School in Sarasota, Fla. The school partnered with SchenkelShultz Architecture to enhance both the aesthetic and technical qualities of the space. The project is scheduled for completion by the end of 2022, according to a news release.

Booker High School Visual Performing Arts Center rendering

“The theater at Booker High School is rich in history and is one of the premier art and cultural ‘gems’ of the Sarasota community,” said SchenkelShultz partner Ken Dean. Renovations include expanding the public lobby for use as a pre-show gathering area and student art gallery; a new balcony and tiered orchestra level for the theater; enhancements to comfort, sightline, and acoustics from the audience; and an expansion that makes room for a black box theater, costume shop, green room and academic space.

“The design preserves the existing theater as a historically significant place to educate students and provides an artistic destination for performers, students, and the community,” said Ekta Desai, AIA, Partner and Design Lead at SchenkelShultz. “Simultaneously, we have elevated the space's production, technology, acoustics, and function, creating an environment that reflects the school's longstanding reputation for excellence.”

About the Author

Matt Jones is senior editor of Spaces4Learning. He can be reached at [email protected].

Featured

  • University of Washington Opens New Broadcast Studio

    The University of Washington in Seattle, Wash., recently announced the opening of Sundodger Studios, a new broadcast, production, and content facility, according to a news release. The university partnered with Anthony James Partners for the design and development of the studio, which will host about 100 live broadcasts and 120 live videoboard shows per year.

  • California District Breaks Ground on Major Campus Renovation

    Alameda Unified School District (AUSD) in Alameda, Calif., recently announced that construction has begun on a major campus overhaul for Otis Elementary School, according to a news release. The district partnered with Quattrocchi Kwok Architects (QKA) and Lathrop Construction Associates, Inc., for its design and construction, respectively.

  • Georgia State University Opens New Research Tower

    Georgia State University in Atlanta, Ga., recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new, nine-story, 155,000-square-foot Research Tower, according to university news. Amenities include academic classrooms, a large lecture space, teaching labs, faculty research space, and the uppermost floors reserved for future expansion.

  • Fayetteville State University Opens New College of Education Building

    Fayetteville State University (FSU) in Fayetteville, N.C., recently celebrated the opening of a new $69.3-million College of Education building, according to a university news release.