College of Saint Benedict, Benedicta Arts Center Expansion
Saint Joseph, MinnesotaHGA designed a simple rectangular addition with horizontal windows that open interior activity to the campus. The architects arranged three new rehearsal and performance spaces on two levels. The Dance Rehearsal space on the first floor has windows overlooking the campus Mall. On the lower level, the Black Box Theater sits adjacent to a 2-story Music Rehearsal hall. A glass corridor, open to the lower level, connects the interior to the existing auditorium wing. Serving as an expanded lobby with box office, the corridor brings additional natural light to the lower level. Further strengthening the interior's connection to the outdoors, the team created a grass amphitheater that extends from the Black Box Theater, allowing indoor and outdoor activities to interact when panel doors are open.