Krannert Center for Performing Arts – Stage and Roof Replacement

As part of our ongoing retainer contract with the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, AltusWorks has served as the Architect for two separate projects at the Krannert Center for Performing Arts (KCPA). The center was designed by University of Illinois alumnus Max Abramovitz and is comprised of multiple mid-century modern structures housing a variety of educational and performance spaces connected by a unified outdoor terrace. The iconic mid-century modern complex is eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places.

In 2020, AltusWorks led a multi-disciplinary design team on a project to replace the stage in the performance hall of the Colwell Playhouse at KCPA. We performed an assessment of existing conditions and collaborated with a theater consultant to create our concept designs, cost estimate, and construction documents that address the specific needs associated with a performance hall. Construction on this project is anticipated to begin in mid-2023.

AltusWorks also served as the Architect for the roof replacement of the Great Hall building at KCPA. This included an up-close evaluation of the roofing systems at multiple performance halls to develop the scope of work and technical specifications needed to replace the low-slope and clay tile roof. Careful consideration was given to the historic significance of this building when designing these construction plans, which were reviewed and approved by the University’s Preservation Architect as well as the Illinois State Historic Preservation Office. As replacement work took place, AltusWorks actively coordinated with the contractor on the scheduling and logistics to ensure that KCPA was able to maintain operations throughout construction.