2007 AIA Michigan Design Honor Award

 The Clifton & Dolores Wharton Center for Performing Arts
East Lansing, Michigan
 

Jury Comment:
A testament to the enduring value of simple form in response to a complex program and challenging site. The interiors provide a warm understated environment for artist and patron drama

The award recognizes architectural design of enduring significance and is conferred on a design that has stood the test of time for at least twenty-five years

Project Description:

The concept of a premier performing arts facility at this university dates back to 1958. The university’s14th president spearheaded community efforts to fund the project, and with an inaugural benefit concert in 1975 by Lena Horne and Tony Bennett, it was launched. The Center for Performing Arts became a reality because of a strong belief that the arts had a place in the community, both on campus and in the state of Michigan. On September 25, 1982, the opening performance was held by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Since that premiere performance 25 years ago, an impressive line-up of performing artists have appeared on the stages. From Broadway, to jazz ensembles, to dance companies, the center has prided itself in presenting artistically diverse programs for art patrons of all ages.

Located on a beautiful site with mature oaks and a shallow ravine, the center houses two primary functions: a 2,500 seat great hall with proscenium stage and a 600 seat theater in the round. The two large volumes are sited at a 45 degree angle to each other to conform to the diagonal ravine that traverses the site. The entrance path from campus becomes a pedestrian bridge that crosses the ravine leading to a large exterior plaza. The center’s glass entrance, also respecting this diagonal orientation, unites the two venues providing views of the activities inside as well as views back to main campus. Event parking utilizes a parking deck directly east of the complex. Anchoring the entrance are two semi-circular towers containing stairs, elevators and toilets that support each performance space. Back of house functions, dressing rooms, green rooms, rehearsal rooms and staging areas occupy a zone directly behind the entrance conveniently accessible to both venues.

The unadorned brick structure was conceived as a jewel set within a park. Sculptural and monumental, it serves as a beacon for those who love the arts. The staggered plan arrangement gives identity to each venue while reducing the impact of the center’s mass.

Internally, materials were selected for there beauty, permanence, and durability. The brick exterior walls continue inside and become the predominant material for many of the major public spaces. Accent walls of oak lend an additional level of warmth. Brick pavers are utilized in the main entrance transitioning to carpet at the lobby to each performing space. Detailing and materiality throughout is simple and classic.

Inside the great hall, the dominant elements are the acoustical cylinders that flank each side and extend over the ceiling. Lighting throughout is strategically concealed placing the focus on the activities on stage. The theater venue serves as a “black box” where all finishes are dark to again bring focus on the performers.

Throughout its 25 year history, with the exception of updating carpet, fabrics and furniture, the center remains virtually unchanged, a testimony to the enduring quality of its design. The original mission of the center to entertain, educate and enlighten continues to this day, to be a community based, community supported cultural resource for the people of the state of Michigan.

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