We situated nearly half of the program below grade, allowing for significant open space on the site; a collection of courtyards, curving paths, fountains and arcing tree rows flow to a central plaza. Open wells along the building perimeters feed daylight and fresh air into the underground areas, such as the rehearsal studios, dining, a gymnasium and support spaces.

The project also folds several small historic buildings into the plan, as well as a mid-rise dormitory building along the western edge of the site.

The school serves 1500 students and over 350 faculty and staff. The program includes:

• 1,200-seat main performance hall with one balcony level; complete with stage, orchestra pit, flytower, audience chamber, public spaces.
• 300-seat rehearsal center; complete with stage, flytower, audience chamber, public spaces.
• 50 practice rooms (2700 sq ft/250 sq m each)
• 2 large dance practice rooms (5400 sq ft/500 sq m each)
• 40 classrooms
• Support spaces such as: offices, conference spaces, entertainment areas, two food service venues, storage, below-grade service level (BI), and a parking level (B2).

We prioritized locally sourced and low carbon emitting materials into the design of the new campus. The theater building features rooftop PV panels, while natural ventilation, high-performance building skins, and cool roofs help to further reduce energy requirements. We also integrated significant water conservation and reuse systems.