The design of auditoriums focuses on the architectural section: success lies in optimizing the acoustics and sightlines for spectators. On the orchestra level, we transformed the space beneath the balcony overhang-which presented the most acoustic and sight line challenges-into functional areas by integrating the mixing booth and restrooms. On the mezzanine level, unused space beneath the sloped seating to introduce was recaptured for new restrooms, enhancing convenience for patrons on the upper level. In the basement, precise excavation around existing piers and footings allowed us to expand the mechanical system without disrupting the structural integrity of the building.

The 1932 building was designed with a small entrance vestibule and a larger lobby, with the line of sound and security separation between them. The lobby was acoustically open to the auditorium, so even minor activity there was disruptive to performances. Due to this, queuing was limited to the vestibule, which was far too small, forcing visitors to line up outside. The renovation moves the line of sound and security separation to the back wall of the auditorium, allowing the vestibule and lobby to be combined into a larger, more functional open space. This expanded area now accommodates queuing, banquets, and smaller gatherings without disturbing rehearsals or events inside the auditorium.

The building now offers just over 1,000 seats – a sweet spot on the UT campus between Bates Recital Hall (700 seats) and Bass Concert Hall (2900 seats). The projects 14 new restrooms align with the University's mission to provide gender-inclusive facilities, enhancing both flexibility and efficiency, particularly during high-capacity events.

The majority of the electrical, mechanical, and plumbing systems were housed in the basement. To avoid expanding the building's footprint, we carefully excavated beneath the structure around the existing piers and footings to enlarge the mechanical basement. Much of the work was done manually, using jackhammers and a small skid steer that was lowered through an opening in the sidewalk, allowing the project to stay within the existing space while meeting modern infrastructure needs.

Something Old: Many of the building’s most historically significant features are found in the vestibule, and preserving these elements was essential to maintaining the building’s character. Although the physical barrier separating the vestibule from the lobby was removed, we intentionally preserved the demarcation line to honor the distinction between the historic vestibule and the new lobby. In the vestibule, several key features were carefully restored: the encaustic floor tiles were cleaned and resealed, pendant lights retrofitted with LEDs, stenciled ceilings and painted wood beams preserved, and the bulletin board niches with wood surrounds were retrofitted with modern flat panel displays.

Something New: The decorative wood wall draws inspiration from the intricate carved plaster surrounding the stage. Instead of replicating the original design, we abstracted the prominent geometries from the plasterwork to create a striking new backdrop for the expanded lobby. This design serves as a transitional element, bridging the flexibility of the lobby with the formality of the auditorium, enhancing the overall aesthetic and experience.

Something Borrowed: As the auditorium’s use evolved over the decades, modifications were made to function more like a black box theater. Windows were boarded up to eliminate daylight and additional spotlight stations were installed at the Juliet balconies to enhance performance control. One of the most transformative improvements we made was uncovering the windows, reintroducing borrowed natural light and direct views of the surrounding trees for students during exams and lectures. At the same time, a layered system of tinted glass, motorized blackout shades, and theatrical curtains was incorporated to provide full light control when needed for performances and film screenings.

Something Blue: Prior to the renovation, the original seating was in poor condition. Replacement was needed to provide retractable seats to comply with egress requirements. The new seating is blue to reflect the historical color palette in the building and the University’s current branding colors. Wood backs and armrests match the existing stained wainscot paneling throughout the space. The original cast iron end caps were preserved and integrated into the new seats. The original longhorn light covers were irresistible souvenirs for graduating seniors of the 200+ aisle end caps, only 2 light covers remained. These were sent to the seating manufacturer, where molds were pulled to cast replicas, installed on the repainted end caps, maintaining a link to the auditorium’s heritage and the University’s famous logo.