Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Experimental Media and Performing Arts Center (EMPAC)
Troy, USA
Davis Brody Bond Aedas collaborated with Grimshaw on the new Experimental Media & Performing Arts Center (EMPAC) at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. An important resource to the Institute, this new structure was designed to explore new technological innovations in the performing arts and to provide the highest quality of acoustic and visual facilities.
Located on a steep hillside, EMPAC is one building with two main components: the Concert Hall and the South Block. The 1200-seat Concert Hall serves as the more formal performance space. Yet, through lighting adjustments, the Concert Hall can appear smaller and more intimate and can be equally appropriate for smaller audiences of 600 to 800. The wooden Concert Hall hull is contained within an all-glass enclosed atrium whose steel supporting frame innovatively integrates a hot water heating system within its mullions. The Concert Hall’s wood paneled curved cladding seen through the clear glass walls stands in contrast to the more rectilinear South Block.
The South Block provides smaller spaces including a 400-seat theater and houses the more experimental performance venues. Its exterior consists of white translucent glass walls.
EMPAC stands as one of the most advanced performing arts venues in the nation and is targeting a LEED Silver rating.
Awards:
- AIA New York State Design Award of Excellence, Institutional Category, 2009
- Best Cultural Building 2008, New York Construction
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