experimental media and performing arts center by grimshaw architects

experimental media and performing arts center by grimshaw architects

the concert hall is clad entirely with red cedar, visible to the outside through a dramatic 100 foot high glass curtain wall.

experimental media and performing arts center by grimshaw architects
image © paul rivera

 

 

 

the experimental media and performing arts center (EMPAC) has been designed by grimshaw architects for the rensselaer polytechnic institute, a technological and optimized performance space developed to intersect the arts and science through sound, movement and light.

 

situated on a steep hillside overlooking the hudson river, the 200,000 sq-ft. building extends the existing RPI campus westward. it provides five different performance environments: an elegant 1,200-seat concert hall, a 400-seat theater, two adaptive performance studios, and a dance studio. it also houses audio and video editing suites, artist-in-residence studios, and the campus radio station. a multi-functional building provides space for performances and other activities, which can take place concurrently without absolute segregation of building users. key to the design is the atrium space, which acts a hub for informal social interaction and as the lobby to the major spaces.

grimshaw-EMPAC-building-designboom01

 image © paul rivera

grimshaw-EMPAC-building-designboom01

 image © paul rivera

grimshaw-EMPAC-building-designboom01

 image © paul rivera

grimshaw-EMPAC-building-designboom01

 image © paul rivera

grimshaw-EMPAC-building-designboom01
image © peter aaron

grimshaw-EMPAC-building-designboom01

EMPAC chairs installed within the theater hall
image © paul rivera

Empac-Chair

detail of the EMPAC chair