The proximity of the site makes it an ideal location for an addition to their campus of buildings. Its triangular geometry is a defining characteristic which plays a significant role in the building design’s form and circulation strategy.
Campus of Greenwich House buildings
To maximize usable space in the building, the circulation was placed at the corners, creating two triangular cores on opposite sides, anchoring the building. These volumes exaggerate the site’s geometry and frame the building’s distinctive profile.
Their solidity contrasts with the transparency of the primary facade, defined by a brick construction and arched windows. These features pay homage to the neighborhood’s landmarked architectural heritage and reference the original music school. Perforated concrete panels introduce a contemporary layer to the facade, blending the past and present of the Village.
The perforated panels filter light into the staircases during the day while at night, they become beacons guiding people towards the building. Their perforations scatter points of light across the surface, illuminating an image of a starry sky.
The layering of these solid and transparent elements create a distinctive and recognizable presence in the neighborhood.
Within the building, the program includes a theater, offices, rehearsal space, classrooms, and a rentable multipurpose area. On the ground floor, the performance space, the reception area, and dressing rooms are arranged to accommodate both guests and students. Program studies done by UQ allowed the design to increase the square footage dedicated to music education compared to the current facility, expanding capacity for both teaching and performance.
Ground Floor Plan
One of the design's main concepts revolved around the layout of the performance space. Situated along 7th Ave, the theater is placed below ground level. Large, street level windows bring the performance onto the street as passersby catch glimpses of the concerts happening below. The visibility between the interior and the street allows the vibrance of 7thAve to become an integral part of the performance. The design seeks to actively draw people out onto the street to encourage community engagement with the school and the arts.
View of the theater from the street
The main entrance is located on Barrow St, marked by the marquee extending above. The aura of a classic theater streetscape is created by the reception window and canopy, which provides a sheltered area for people to gather and converse, reinforcing the music school’s role as both a cultural institution and a neighborhood anchor.
