Redhouse

Syracuse, NY

Client: Redhouse

Size: 43,000 sq. ft.

Architect: Schopfer Architects, LLP

Date Completed: March 2018

The Redhouse Arts Center was developed to support the continued growth of Redhouse’s artistic, educational, and community outreach programs, replacing its former 12,000-square-foot facility with a new 43,000-square-foot performing arts venue within Syracuse’s City Center mixed-use development.

Designed as a flexible, multi-purpose arts destination, the facility features three black-box style theaters with seating capacities of 425, 125, and 65 patrons, allowing the space to accommodate productions and events of varying sizes. At the heart of the building is a dynamic circular lobby that serves not only as a welcoming gathering space, but also as a venue for receptions, banquets, art exhibitions, and performances. Additional project elements include a concession area with a serving kitchen, rehearsal and dressing rooms, a green room, a dedicated scene shop, a parking garage, and state-of-the-art control booths that support modern theatrical productions.

In recognition of the building’s history as the former Sibley’s department store, the design thoughtfully preserves and highlights elements of the original structure. Salvaged windows were repurposed as interior wall features within the administrative wing, and decorative wall tile was incorporated to honor and visually reference the building’s past, creating a meaningful connection between its historic identity and its new life as a performing arts center.