Constructed in 1952, the Karen Hille Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is 45,900 square feet in size. the auditorium seats about 1200, and includes a generously sized stage, an orchestra pit and traps. The building served as a home for KPLU until June 2009, and houses Tower Chapel, various faculty offices, music practice rooms, theatre support facilities and two large classrooms. Planning for restoration and expansion of the building began in 1996, and in 2005 the architectural firm o NBBJ was engaged to develop a conceptual design.
The project includes restoration of the building within its current footprint, with a relatively small addition that provides an expanded lobby, elevator access and a narthex for Tower Chapel. This restoration includes a rebuilt auditorium with about 835 seats and improved sightlines, a studio theatre and scene shop, and enhanced support and offices for the Department of Theatre.
Finally, the building now provides heat for several residence halls. When the restoration is complete, these halls and the west wing of the Performing Arts Center would be heated by a geothermal well system, and the current natural gas heating system would be replaced with a new high efficiency system.
During the summer of 2010, the pitched roof was replaced with beautiful copper shingles, gutters and downspouts, and the upper flat roof was completely replaced. The entire brick facade was cleaned and all of the damaged bricks were replaced. In addition, the capstones were fastened to the building. The front doors were refinished, and all bathroom fixtures were replaced. The Rose Window was also updated.
Phase I of the project was recently completed. This includes construction of a new Studio Theatre and Scene Shop.
The administration is currently working with BCRA Architects to design Phase II of the Karen Hille Phillips Performing Arts Center. The planning of Phase II consists of creating a reception, gathering and circulation areas within the existing footprint. There are also plans to upgrade the existing stage and auditorium to include new seating. Consideration is also being made for seismic and building code upgrades.