Towson University
Center for the Arts
The ambitious expansion and renovation of Towson University’s facilities for the performing and fine arts included a 122,000 SF addition built around an existing 165,000 SF building. The project upgraded the center’s performance and studio space and added a new music recital hall, dance studios, and an art gallery. Notable new and renovated spaces include:
- Main Stage Theatre (352 seats)
- Concert Hall (520 seats)
- Black Box Studio Theatre (200 seats)
- Band & Chorus (100-piece) practice rooms
- Main Dance Recital Hall (100 seats)
- Dance Classrooms (3 @ 2,000 SF/each)
- Black Box Studio Theatre (210 seats)
- Acting/Directing Laboratories (6 @ 2,000 SF/each)
- Music Recital Hall (162 seats)
- Music & Theatre Recording Studios
- Gallery Spaces (3 @ 1,500 SF)
- Painting and Drawing Studios (4 @ 2,000 SF/each)
- Photography Suite (4,000 SF), with processing labs and studio
- Visual Arts/Computer Laboratory Classrooms (5 total)
Challenges included the incorporation of building systems that would not interfere with acoustics in sound-sensitive places, addressing strict environmental control standards for the art exhibition and storage spaces, and developing an effective phasing strategy for working in and around the occupied building. Wrapping the addition around the existing facility also required addressing complex challenges in terms of extending the building systems and ensuring safe and effective ventilation strategies.
Consulting Services
- HVAC Systems
- Central Plants
- Cost Estimating
- Electrical Power
- Fire Alarm & Detection
- Fire Protection
- Life Cycle Cost Analyses
- Lighting Design
- Plumbing Systems
- Sustainable Design
- Value Engineering
Architect
Wilson Butler Architects / Design Collective
Client History
-
2026
Cook Library HVAC & Data Center Renovation
-
2026
Smith Hall
"The relationship between mechanical systems and room acoustics is critical. This was a very large, complex project. Mueller performed well across the board."Jim Carroll, AIADesign Collective, Inc.
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