Add as a preferred source on Google

Harvard University Breaks Ground on New Performance Center

  • By Matt Jones
  • 07/11/24

Harvard University in Cambridge, Mass., recently broke ground on a new performance center that will play home to the American Repertory Theater, according to a news release. The university is partnering with architect and design lead Haworth Tompkins, architect of record ARC/Architectural Resources Cambridge, and construction manager Shawmut Design and Construction for the David E. and Stacy L. Goel Center for Creativity & Performance. Construction is tentatively scheduled for completion in 2026.

“We are honored to be leading the construction of the David E. and Stacey L. Goel Center for Creativity & Performance,” said executive vice president of Shawmut Design and Construction’s New England region Kevin Sullivan. “This project exemplifies our deep commitment to the community. By prioritizing environmental sustainability and adaptable design, we are building a vibrant hub for creativity and connection that will serve the local area for years to come. Our shared goal of minimizing embodied and operational carbon, maximizing wellbeing, and enhancing resiliency ensures that this center will not only be a beacon for the arts but also a pioneering global model for sustainable construction.”

The space features two flexible performance spaces: the West Stage for large-scale productions, and the East Stage as a more intimate venue. It will also include interconnected and adaptable multi-purpose spaces to support both future-readiness and creative collaboration. Other amenities include rehearsal studios and teaching spaces, a public lobby, and an outdoor performance venue, as well as dressing rooms, administrative space, technical shops, and a café.

From the sustainability angle, the building was designed to meet the Living Building Challenge core accreditation from the International Living Future Institute, the news release reports. Construction materials include laminate mass timber, reclaimed brick, and cedar cladding to minimize embodied and operational carbon. Rooftop solar panels will gather solar energy, while a green roof and thorough plantings will assist with stormwater attenuation, the news release reports.

About the Author

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

Featured

  • Anderson Brulé Architects Rebrands as ABA Studios

    Anderson Brulé Architects, based in San Jose, Calif., recently announced that it is celebrating 40 years of service by rebranding under a new name, according to a news release. The architectural, interior design, and planning firm will now be known as ABA Studios to refresh its identity underneath a new generation of leadership.

  • Los Angeles City College Breaks Ground on New Administration, Workforce Building

    Los Angeles City College (LACC) in Los Angeles, Calif., recently broke ground on a new $72-million administrative facility, according to a news release. The Cesar Chavez Administration and Workforce Building will stand four stories, cover 67,230 square feet, and play home to a wide variety of the school’s educational and administrative services.

  • California K–12 District Opens New Athletic Complex, Gym

    The San Mateo Union High School District (SMUHSD) in San Mateo, Calif., recently announced the completion of two new athletics facilities: a new gymnasium at Burlingame High School, and a new athletic training complex at San Mateo High School, according to a news release.

  • UNL Kiewit Hall

    Designing for Engineering Excellence: Integrating Sustainability and Wellness at UNLs Kiewit Hall

    Kiewit Hall at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln exemplifies how academic institutions can integrate sustainability and wellness into modern learning environments. With an integrated and collaborative team approach, Kiewit Hall addresses enhanced learning and creativity, physical health, and mental wellness, and fosters a sense of community through innovative design, operations, and policy solutions.

Digital Edition