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Des Moines Community Playhouse Addition

An addition and renovation of the beloved pillar in the cultural community of Des Moines

Information

Location Des Moines, Iowa
Size 46,031 SF
Completion 2014
Services Architecture
Project Type Performing Arts, Community (private)

BNIM was chosen to design an addition and renovation for the Des Moines Community Playhouse, a cherished cultural institution in Des Moines since 1919, now one of the six oldest continuously-operating in the U.S. The project began with a thorough existing building analysis, revealing its potential for renovation rather than demolition for new construction. This analysis led to a phased renovation approach, or Acts, ensuring a cohesive transformation that enhances the theater experience within the historic building. In the first phase, Act I, a new multipurpose glass lobby was introduced, designed to respect the Playhouse’s historic roots while bringing the culture of the theater closer to the community. Act II focused on revitalizing the lobbies and restrooms of the 400-seat main stage theater, increasing accessibility for both actors and patrons. During the upcoming phase, Act III will involve the renovation of the Kate Goldman Children’s theater, as well as the greenroom and dressing rooms. It will also incorporate a new addition to accommodate a costume shop, storage space, and administrative offices.

Impact + Innovation

The Des Moines Community Playhouse is a vibrant community and children’s theater space. While renovations and additions such as the delicate glass lobby provide modern functionality and connectivity within the community playhouse, the design is intentional in honoring the historic structure by keeping much of the original stonework, knitting the history of the community playhouse together with its bright future. Several tenets shaped the design, including the client’s commitment to sustainability and building performance, enriched visitor experience, user comfort, and longevity of the community playhouse. The renewed space provides visitors with a unified experience centered around the performances that give the space its heartbeat.

Process

BNIM utilized a theater community-driven process to establish a comprehensive long-term design plan that unfolded over a span of 10 years. Through the initial analysis of the existing building, the potential for renovation rather than demolition was recognized, allowing the theater to maintain operations throughout various construction phases. The project was divided into fundable phases, aligning with an early design master plan and vision. Given the extensive timeline, maintaining consistency within the design team played a pivotal role in ensuring a shared understanding of long-term design goals and decisions. Throughout the design and construction process, BNIM led an integrated team of theater, acoustical, MEP, and structural consultants. Their collaborative efforts resulted in the incorporation of a new catwalk, enhanced accessibility, and improved theater systems, benefiting both actors and patrons.

People

Team

Jason Kruse
Jonathan Ramsey
Rod Kruse
Kevin Nordmeyer
Levi Robb
Paul Kempton
Ash Lettow
Kylie Schwaller

Client

Des Moines Community Playhouse

The building gained a lot of currency by its contrast to the detail and stonework to the older building that it is adjacent to more so than if it had been a free standing structure. The building’s contrast of materials was sympathetic to existing materials. It is really hard to succeed by taking existing materials and extending them, and the team had the discipline to not go down that route. This allowed the new playhouse to show off the change and transformation. There was a directness to this project through its structure, quality of light, material use, which supports the overall idea. We appreciated the contrast and simplicity of the steel box.

2014 AIA KC Jury Comments