Butts County Performing Arts Center

Jackson, Georgia

Firm

Breaux & Associates Architects

Client

Butts County Schools

Area

33,100 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$14,443,500

Completion Date

11/2023

Karl Moore, Mooreshots Photography

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Design team
Kate Fijalkowska (Project Architect)

Jackson, Georgia, is home to the Butts County School System’s gorgeous new facility for performing arts students. The facility was constructed in 13 months, and despite 51 rain days, was completed on time.

The performing arts center lobby is a striking blend of design and materiality, where abundant natural light pours through expansive windows to create a bright and inviting atmosphere. The extensive use of glass blurs the boundaries between the interior and the exterior of the building, and tray ceilings featuring a dynamic wave design with integrated lighting add a sense of movement overhead. A rich palette of brick in varying tones adds warmth, pattern, and texture—beautifully contrasted by sleek LVT flooring. The lobby also features two recessed galleries dedicated to showcasing student art at all levels. It adds a personalized and ever-changing visual element that celebrates the creativity of the community.

The auditorium houses 1,000 seats, features state-of-the-art AV technology, and is fitted with theater-grade lighting. The wave design concept used in the lobby is carried into the auditorium through decorative wall panels, subtly inspired by sound waves. Backstage, the performing arts center is equipped with two 850-square-foot dressing rooms, ample storage, and a 1,500-square-foot scene shop with loading dock so that students can build sets on site.

The performing arts center also features a 2,500-square-foot multipurpose room that can be divided into two. The multipurpose room, dressing rooms, and lobby are all outfitted with monitors that display live performances.

Beyond serving as a venue for theater, symphonic band, and choral performances, the facility is also a valuable community asset. Butts County extends the use of this facility to the public, and it is regularly reserved for community events, making Butts County Performing Arts Center a versatile and inclusive space for all.