Sam Houston State University, Performing Arts Center

Huntsville, Texas

Firm

WHR Architects

Client

Sam Houston State University

Area

101,950 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$31,297,336

Completion Date

07/2010

In anticipation of establishing a new College of Fine Arts, Sam Houston State University is seeking to create a new performing-arts center that will unite the music, theater and dance departments. The new center is situated at the terminus of a green space flanked by the existing music building and University Theater Center and will link both buildings physically. An outdoor performance area adjacent to the large, open lobby serves as the centerpiece of the arts complex, providing visitors a congregation space and showcasing students’ artwork while enabling natural light to enter the center of the building.

An additional goal of the design includes creating distinct identities for each performance venue. The 750-seat concert hall and 150-seat dance theater have sloped roofs that set them apart from the rest of the complex, and the dance studios are cantilevered from the second floor, giving them a dramatic presence on the north side of the building.