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Theatre Design / Architectural Lighting / AV Technology

Sandi Simon Center for Dance at Chapman University

The Sandi Simon Center for Dance at Chapman University underwent a remarkable transformation, converting a 1918 Sunkist packing house into a state-of-the-art dance facility. The center meets the needs of over 200 dance students, offering essential instructional and performance spaces. The original features of the building have been seamlessly integrated. The result is three interconnected levels filled with natural light, serving as classrooms, studios, and performance spaces.

The main performance studio stands out for its theatrical systems and architectural lighting, enabling effortless transitions from a studio classroom to a captivating performance venue, ideal for dance. The studio incorporates tracking mirrors, retractable seating, and deployable drapery to create a versatile environment. Additionally, all the studios are equipped with AV systems, facilitating remote teaching and learning, ensuring flexibility and adaptability.

A key aspect of the design was striking a balance between the lighting requirements of the spaces and the desire for ample natural daylight and open environments. The architectural lighting in the studios was thoughtfully crafted to enhance the ambiance while maintaining functionality.

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Sandi Simon Center for Dance at Chapman University

Integrating with the existing structure, lighting for the dance studio provides a high light level for practice as well as uplighting for the space, emphasizing the room height and historic ceiling.

72,000

Square Feet

The main performance studio stands out for its theatrical systems and architectural lighting, enabling effortless transitions from a studio classroom to a captivating performance venue, ideal for dance. Sandi Simon Center for Dance at Chapman University, Orange, California. © Eric Staudenmaier

124 Seats

Image

1 of 5

Location

Main Lobby

Description

The view from the main lobby into the performance studio.

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2 of 5

Location

Dance Studio

Description

The main performance studio may be closed off from the lobby or opened to the lobby to create an interconnectedness with the rest of the building.

Image

3 of 5

Location

Dance Studio

Description

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4 of 5

Location

Dance Studio

Description

Linear direct/indirect light fixtures supplement daylight from the clerestories during the day and create a luminous environment at night. Studios are equipped with advanced AV systems, facilitating remote teaching and learning, ensuring flexibility and adaptability.

Image

5 of 5

Location

Dance Studio

Description

Integrating with the existing structure, lighting for the dance studio provides a high light level for practice as well as uplighting for the space, emphasizing the room height and historic ceiling.

Project Details

Location

Orange, California

Discipline

Theatre/Performance Environments / Architectural Lighting / AV Technology

Size

72,000 SF / 124 Seats (Performance Studio) / Five (5) Dance Studios

Partners

Lorcan O’Herlihy Architects (LOHA) (Architect) / Veneklasen Associates (Acoustics)

Photo Credit

Services

Facility Programming / Theatre Design / Theatrical Lighting System / Theatrical Rigging System / Audio and Video Systems / Broadcast Systems / Interior Architectural Lighting

Awards

2023, AIA California, Design Award Recipient, Merit Award
2023, Winner for Rehabilitation, California Preservation Foundation Awards