Design details for The Buddy Holly Hall of Performing Arts and Sciences, which will be located in the birthplace of the legendary 1950s pop star in Lubbock, Texas, have been released by Diamond Schmitt Architects.
The multi-purpose arts complex is designed to allow a wide range of uses, from opera, Broadway shows and symphonic music, to rock concerts, conferences and social events. It will also be home to Ballet Lubbock with its own rehearsal and performance space and provide access to the Lubbock Independent School District as a learning centre.
“The aim for Lubbock is to create a performing arts centre as good acoustically as welcoming to the public, and as attractive to performers to be among the best halls in North America,” said Jack Diamond, principal at Diamond Schmitt Architects, in a press release.
The design was inspired by and in the spirit of Lubbock, West Texas and the South Plains. It will feature a 2,200-seat main theatre, an additional 400-seat theatre, a 5,000 square-foot multi-purpose room and a 22,000 square foot Dance Centre.
“Our goal is to have this venue feel great for all types of performers and audiences – whether they are in jeans and hats or ball gowns,” said Matthew Lella, principal, Diamond Schmitt.
In order to achieve that vision, the floor of the main auditorium can have raked seating or be flat for a standing audience, either below or in line with the stage. The hall will feature natural acoustics for a large symphony orchestra and amplified sound for touring bands and shows.
The lobby will feature ample public space with its feature helical stair and amenities including a bistro café. The swooping planes of the roofline and cascading columns create a strong visual identity and a welcoming entrance to the arts hub. A dynamic light sculpture that will be visible from a great distance will be a marker for the new performing arts centre.
The Lubbock Entertainment and Performing Arts Association (LEPAA) is developing the project and is well on its way to achieving its $146-million fundraising target, with $81-million raised to date. The facility will be fully funded through private donations.
Diamond Schmitt is working with a development team consisting of Garfield Public/Private, LLC, Parkhill, Smith & Cooper, MWM Architects, Hugo Reed & Associates, Jaffe Holden Acoustics, Schuler Shook and Lee Lewis Construction. Construction is slated to begin later this year with the opening scheduled for 2019.
