Lake Zurich High School Performing Arts Center
Lake Zurich, Ill.
Legat Architects

Topography blends with abstract forms to define theater space

© James Steinkamp

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Located at the summit of a small hill, Lake Zurich High School's new Performing Arts Center is defined by its topography and commands the view from surrounding areas. Legat Architects conceived of theater as an extension of the natural slope to form a dish-shaped structure that supports 670 seats. On the lower side of the hill, below the seating, a flat rectangular plate forms the stage. Above it, the large volume of the fly tower rises 70 feet high.

Legat sought to express the event of the arts by creating abstract forms and evoking a sense of mystery. A series of curved and straight walls enclose the theater space, meeting at the high corner of the fly tower. Their presence reduces the tower's mass, while simultaneously celebrating it. Made of light precast concrete and reflective metal panels, these walls contrast with the fly tower's red velvet brick.

The theater’s main entrance responds to the school’s desire for flexibility. During the day, it functions as a student entry and gathering space. In the evening, it can be shut off from the rest of the school for performances and public community events. The lobby’s triangular plan results from the merging rectangular and curvilinear geometry. A curved wall, extended from the exterior, forms the triangle's long side and fully encloses the seating area. A large opening in this wall reveals the dish-shaped structure, punctuating it with a warm yellow light.

Highly visible from a road that runs alongside the school, the theater provides a new architectural expression for the campus. Its color and forms contrast with the existing structure, highlighting this new addition to the school and the community.

Formal name of Project:
Lake Zurich High School Performing Arts Center

Location:
Lake Zurich, Ill.

Gross square footage:
120,382 sq. ft. - additions; 195,718 sq. ft. - renovations

Total construction cost:
$33.5 million

Owner:
Lake Zurich Community Unit School District 95

Architect:
Legat Architects
651 W. Washington, Suite 1
312-258-9595 tel.
312-258-555 fax
www.legat.com

From left to right: Dominick Demonica, AIA, Vojo Narancic, AIA, Greg Spitzer, Assoc. AIA, Tom Kikta, AIA, Suzette Morejon, IIDA