by kalita humphreys theater makeup by diller scofidio + renfro
Diller Scofidio + Renfro (DS+R) recently shared new visuals and a detailed transition animation depicting a full restoration proposal for the Kalita Humphreys Theater in Dallas, Texas. Originally designed by Frank Lloyd Wright The mid-century complex is located in a disused form within a large green park. Indeed, years of accumulated neglect and designed in 1959 theatre subdued its architectural integrity, making it one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s most overlooked creations.
In light of this, DS+R embarked on a complete revitalization plan to carefully restore the theater to its original glory. Taking a multi-pronged approach, the proposal is based on four key actions:surgical removal, selective reconstruction, careful preservation, and a faithful reinterpretation of Wight’s design intent. […].While appreciated for its synthesis with nature, it likewise was never truly celebrated as a standalone Frank Lloyd Wright building. The proposed make-up addresses this paradox,’ DS+R writes.
all images © Diller Scofidio + Renfro
A four-stage and versatile restoration
first stage DS+R‘s four-stage restoration plan focuses on surgically restoring the Kalita Humphreys Theater building without straying too far from Wright’s original design. On the one hand, the team will carefully restore mid-century details such as lighting fixtures, ventilation grilles, door handles, window sills and furniture, while removing “excess” like the 1968 lobby extension.
On the other hand, To protect the future of Kalita Humphreys, the project must not only restore the theater but also renovate it to support the needs of contemporary artists and audiences. Upgraded lighting, AV, stage infrastructure and other background functions will provide much needed flexibility for a wider range of performances. Seating will be rearranged to resemble the 1959 auditorium, but each row will be staggered to significantly improve sight lines. A central information point and historic center in the campus lobby will guide and engage visitors.,’ describes DS+R.
outdoor performance venue
The following steps involve transforming the surrounding public green spaces into an authentic park and outdoor arts complex that is active all year. The green center will also connect to Turtle Creek and Katy Trail, one of Dallas’ most visited spots. In terms of program, visitors will enjoy an open-air performance venue, two pavilions, and a 100-seat black box theater with a walkable ceiling grid and operable façade, both of which open onto one of the courtyards. ‘Collectively, these and other improvements will allow the theater to host more productions while honoring the beauty and integrity of Frank Lloyd Wright’s design.,’ finishes DS+R.
master plan axonometric view
1959 design remains faithful to the original architecture
100 seat movie theater
new areas for social interactions
project information:
name: Kalita Humphreys Theater Master Plan
Location: Dallas Texas
customer: Dallas Theater Center
architectural: Diller Scofidio and Renfro (DS+R) | @diller_scofidio_renfro
responsible partner: Charles Renfro
partners: Elizabeth Diller, Ricardo Scofidio, Benjamin Gilmartin
project leaders: Kevin RiceAndrea Schelly
project team: Fareez Giga, Kaitlin Faherty, Graysen Maxwell Babbitt, Lauren Ma
local architect: BOKA Powell
landscape architect: Reed Hildebrand
Construction manager: Beck Group
historic preservation: Harboe Architects
structural engineer: Robert Silman Partners
civil and traffic engineer: Pacheco Koch
mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineer: Syska Hennessy Group
theater consultant: Fisher Dachs Partners
acoustic / audio-visual: Threshold Acoustic LLC
accessibility: Access by Design
