DCPA Bonfils Lobby Renovation
After 30 years, the lobby of the Kevin Roche-designed Bonfils Theatre Complex needed updating to respond to current standards of audience amenities and service. Semple Brown studied the flow and function of the multi-venue lobby, crafting not only a cosmetic update, but a functional rearrangement. The result has made the box office more functional, expanded seating and service for the lobby café, and dramatically re-lighted the space to take advantage of the soaring lobby volume. Digital kiosks help heighten patron engagement, and a new patron lounge/meeting room has replaced under-used offices.
The iconic five-sided Space Theatre was renovated to meet a wide range of building code, accessibility, technical production and patron services priorities. Through a combination of architectural changes, Semple Brown Design was able to preserve the venue’s distinctive intimacy and flexibility while bringing it into the 21st Century. Through the strategic reduction of seating capacity, the design provides five control booths for technical support, as well as two new dressing rooms for performers.
The iconic five-sided Space Theatre was renovated to meet a wide range of building code, accessibility, technical production and patron services priorities. Through a combination of architectural changes, Semple Brown Design was able to preserve the venue’s distinctive intimacy and flexibility while bringing it into the 21st Century. Through the strategic reduction of seating capacity, the design provides five control booths for technical support, as well as two new dressing rooms for performers.
By relocating the theatre’s public entry to the main lobby level, Semple Brown gave the theatre its own pre-function lobby and restroom suite – and separated the audience from the backstage area of the theatre. New finishes throughout the theatre create an environment of warmth and acoustical quality. New duct paths ensure more consistent cooling through the space, and two sections of seating feature lifts to make the lower section of seating accessible.
Simplicity at Every Turn
Embracing an inclusive ethos, Hurley Place positions itself with the river as its focal point, inviting diverse communities and fostering economic vibrancy. The Riverfront development is comprised of two residential towers, a hotel tower, and an expansive central open space connecting to the river. This central connector is flanked by food & beverage and retail establishments and serves as both a connection to the Promenade but also a gathering space for the community.
