A glass entry pavilion with an integrated LED color-evolving light display at the University of Maine’s Collins Center for the Arts projects the energy of the arts to the surrounding campus and beyond, drawing visitors from throughout eastern and northern Maine to the region’s premier cultural center. Additions and renovations to the center provided the performing and visual arts, as well as the university museum, with greater presence and capability through long-overdue upgrades and modernizations.
The completed project was comprised of front-of-house improvements, including a new public entry, lobby, and ticket booth. Seating layout within the Hutchins Concert Hall was revamped to improve access and safety. A new sound booth, combined with lighting, acoustic and sound system improvements, expanded music and concert capabilities. Oak Point worked closely with the center’s Production Manager to design the concert hall improvements and the lobby light display. The firm also collaborated closely with the Hudson Museum Director to design enclosed glass displays that protect valuable collections.
Upgrades to the Hudson Museum HVAC system included a dedicated air handling system with thermostatic and humidity controls, along with energy efficient features such as free cooling for the chilled water and a carbon dioxide monitor used in conjunction with demand ventilation control. Campus maintenance personnel have full access to real time monitoring and alarm functions through the integrated building automation system. Renovations also included major life safety and ADA upgrades, as well as increased seismic and other structural capacity.
The tightly-scheduled project was accomplished through a phased design delivery where construction component ‘packages’ were fed to the construction manager.
•New glass entry, lobby and ticket booth
•Improved accessibility
•Lighting, acoustic, and sound system improvements
•Life safety and accessibility upgrades
•Specialized museum HVAC system including thermostatic and humidity controls
•Custom exhibit display cases
•Increased seismic and other structural capacity
•Phased design delivery