The DPAC is a 103,000 sf, 2,800-seat state of the art Broadway-style theater and was built for $46 million, which is said to be half of what other theaters are being built for. Located on a former industrial brownfield site, the DPAC was the first phase of a masterplan to renovate the downtown and historic Durham area in hopes of revitalizing the area. The DPAC connects a growing arts community with the downtown area and has spurred on the development of an eighteen-story county courthouse, a six-story design center, an upscale boutique hotel, and a multi-story, mixed-use residential and office development.
Energy efficiency played a large role in the design of the performing arts center, which features a large curtain wall with both clear and fritted glass. This multi-story glass wall allows for an amazingly day lit lobby and views of the Durham skyline. Orientation minimizes solar gain, but maximizes daylighting and an energy efficient natural ventilation systems bring in fresh air to the guests. High performance insulation also helps minimize energy use. The DPAC’s downtown location encourages pedestrian activity and a greater interconnectedness within the city overall.
+ Durham Performing Arts Center
+ Szostak Design Inc
Via ArchDaily
Images ©Tom Arban
The Durham Performing Arts Center is a fantastic asset to Durham, NC. When you drive through downtown Durham and catch your first glimpse of DPAC, you can see why its a showcase building for our community. Additionally, the city of Durham owns the building. It is primarily funded by a hotel occupancy tax. It just goes to show that publicly-funded buildings can still be beautiful.