Ford Recital HallYoungstown, Ohio

Project Description

The plan is organized off of an existing alley to the north of Powers Auditorium which becomes an armature for the new spaces. The parti forms a triad of three major spaces. The 600-seat recital hall fits into a slope topped, drum-shaped volume. A high bay lobby occupying a skewed box parallels the adjacent original theater lobby, connected to each other by a restaurant which is expandable through opening a series of pivoting glass panels. The panels hang on a suspended structure stabilized by counter-weighted cables and tension rods, an allegory of the physics of string music. The northernmost space is a bar containing a new load-in/backstage area across from and perpendicular to the old stage. Dressing areas on the second level are connected to the old via a bridge in the alley. The southern end of the site contains a small city pocket park, with a bosk of dogwood trees, perfect for al fresco dining. The whole assemblage celebrates a great commercial heritage and revitalizes the street by creating a transparent reception area which showcases events.

Awards

2006 AIA Eastern Ohio Design Honor Award