Gallery
“The respect for the original architecture is clear, and the lightness of the gesture helps to create the soaring feeling in the space. The technology becomes the new ornament in an old ornamented space.”American Institute of Architects - National Honor Award for Interior Architecture
Description
This adaptive reuse and restoration project transformed an historic Byzantine-Lombardic church into a multi-purpose facility, while preserving the integrity and beauty of the structure. The auditorium accommodates a variety of cultural and academic events – lectures, plays and concerts – as well as additional space for meetings and receptions. Building systems were upgraded for contemporary uses with flexible seating, a professional stage and sound systems.
Most importantly, the acoustics of the original domed space were completely re-configured to performance standards with the introduction of butterfly clouds of sound-reflecting acoustical panels. Praised as a “repair of the old and the introduction of the new, juxtaposed with particular skill and beauty,” the Center has been honored for design excellence with nine awards including the National AIA Honor Award for Interior Architecture.
Distinctions
- American Institute of Architects
- Honor Award for Interior Architecture
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“The respect for the original architecture is clear, and the lightness of the gesture helps to create the soaring feeling in the space. The technology becomes the new ornament in an old ornamented space.”
- AIA State of New York
- Award of Merit
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“Preservation and adaptive re-use projects are all too often only driven by literal and meticulous preservation of the 'existing.' In this project, the repair of the old and the introduction of the new are juxtaposed with particular skill and beauty. The gossamer and butterfly-like structures of the new acoustical ceiling offers a contemporary pattern and perfect foil to the Byzantine tile and detail of the original building.”
- American School & University
- Gold Citation
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“Excellent restoration!...sensitivity to the original design while meeting the program...innovative design in acoustical panels, seating and lighting.”
- Preservation League of New York State
- Preservation League Award for Excellence in Historic Preservation
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“This work has spurred economic development, increased heritage awareness and tourism, revitalized the community, and helped unveil the beauty of the area's rich architectural and cultural heritage...”
- Chicago Athenaeum, Museum of Architecture and Design
- American Architecture Award
- New York Construction News
- Award of Merit
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“A spectacular project...the project team did an outstanding and sensitive job in restoring the fabric of the building while blending old and new components to provide a modern-day facility.”
- AIA Western New York
- First Award
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“...an impressive space with a carefully crafted renovation.”
- American Society of Interior Designers - NY Upstate/Canada East Chapter
- Best of Competition
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“Very creative! A beautiful space - well thought out, with great lighting and excellent planning of balcony and stage location.”
- Illuminating Engineering Society of North America
- Western New York Section, Illumination Design Award
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“Focusing upon functional and visual flexibility, the lighting design operates with simplicity. Exterior luminaries enhance the steeple, dome, rose windows and entries, while reflections from stained glass windows of the dome decorate the acoustic panels in daylight. The theatrical lighting system includes balcony and side archway trusses. Original chandeliers in the upper reception area were restored, supplemented with track lighting, while fluorescent sources illuminate the lower lobby.”