Princeton University Lewis Center for the Arts is a new facility that houses performance and teaching spaces for the programs in Theater and Dance, the Department of Music and the Fellows in the Creative and Performing Arts program.
The 139,000 square foot complex consists of three contemporary buildings designed around a courtyard. The buildings will share a common reception area and will house several public spaces, including an art gallery, a black box theater, a dance studio and a music rehearsal room. The complex will also house faculty and administrative offices and a box office.
The project has an energy goal of utilizing 50 percent less energy than required by current energy codes. Princeton's policy is not to pursue LEED, but to go beyond LEED and focus on maximum carbon reduction throughout the design, construction and operation of the facility. To achieve this goal integrated sustainable features are being considered, including geothermal heating and cooling, green roofs, improved exterior envelope performance, displacement ventilation system; mixed mode ventilation system; radiant heating and cooling, and passive design strategies of building orientation, shading, natural light, natural ventilation and thermal mass. In furthering environmental stewardship goals, sustainable material selection and construction management practices also will be key components of the building project.
With Steven Holl Architects.