Architect's Report

Forgot to blog yesterday as I went into picture frenzy and loaded...as you can see... a TON of pictures from the cleanout and painting extravaganza!

Jerry Traub, a historic buildings architect, came out from Raleigh NC yesterday to look over the site and offer insight and put together a quote for drawings and sketches. We walked the entire property inside and out and came to the conclusion that I definitely need at least pre-design drawings of the property. I will need this for contractors, HVAC personnel, historic preservation purposes, etc. There is not much "construction" that needs to happen as the building is what it is. There are some construction items such as rebuilding the proscenium, staging, orchestra pit and a potential stairway to the balcony.

The architectural review was a little intense as he was discussing all the modern codes for ADA accessibility, elevator size, bathroom needs per person, sprinkler systems and a host of other ominous federal, state and local guidelines. I think we should be okay on many of these fronts but it was interesting to now get into the detail on code issues that ordinarily the average citizen does not even consider. So, perhaps a few more dollars into the budget.....

****SPECIAL GAME FOR BLOG FOLLOWERS*****
I think you have all seen some of the pictures of the Main Theatre and the 2 "mini balconies"? Can you look at the pics again of the main theatre and let me know what you would do with these balconies. (Note: Need a structural engineer to inspect and certify the structural integrity and/or add beam supports to reinforce integrity if needed. If structurally sound, then below options can be discussed):

A couple options are:
1) add additional balcony seating to these areas (assume adding staircase of course) which I believe would give at least 25-30 seats additional on each side.

2) just use balcony areas for lighting and audio technicians for respective shows. Lights & Audio typically have large boards to manage light/audio and this would keep them separated from the audience. (assumes stairway as well and ability to transport audio/electric eqpt up/down easily.

3) use balconies for private groups and/or lounge area (ie. VIP area pre and post show). Akin to football stadium "private boxes", we can put a plexi or glass enclosure (with window to open/shut to hear performances.

4) create additional restroom facilities on the balcony level. There are two single usage facility rooms off the lobby which may/may not be up to code for seating capacity of 400+. However, restrooms on balcony level would not be ADA accessible. (we may could reconfigure the downstairs facility to accommodate wheelchairs and make ADA accessible.

5) Cut back the balconies to just extend the width of the lobby (not to extend over the last 5-7 rows of orchestra seats. Underneath the balconies, the seating could be a bit claustrophobic. Cutting it back we could still either have restroom facilities, light/audio or private area (albeit much smaller).

6) Remove balconies entirely and only have projectionist booth above. This could open up the ceiling height in the lobby area at least in the entry way (although removing could be a major hassle and effort.

7) Extend and connect the two balconies in the middle to provide additional balcony seating. Now, we could have approx. total of 60 -70 balcony seats. This would give a total seating capacity of 500+.

Any ideas and suggestions would love to hear from you.

Drew