Size: 21,222 sf

Completion: Spring 2018

R.E. Dimond and Associates provided design services for the mechanical, electrical, telecommunications, plumbing, and fire suppression systems at the newly relocated Phoenix Theatre.

The 21,200 square foot venue was designed to create a one-of-a-kind experience for theatre patrons. The building is located on the Cultural Trail and contains two performance spaces: a 143-seat proscenium theatre and a configurable black-box theatre. It also includes a dedicated classroom and rehearsal studio, scene shop, costume and prop shop, donor lounge, gallery space, warming kitchen, and dual-use area for concessions and box office services near the main entrance.

There were three challenges in designing the HVAC and electrical systems for the Phoenix Theatre: coordinating utilities on a tight building site, delivering innovative bathroom design for unisex restroom facilities, and meeting lighting, power, aesthetic and acoustic requirements necessary for a modern, flexible performing arts venue.

The project team was able to meet the challenges of coordination with the City of Indianapolis and the Indianapolis Fire Department by identifying acceptable locations for delivery of utility services for gas, domestic water, power, and fire protection. The building encompasses the majority of the lot’s footprint leaving no room around the site for equipment.

Space conditioning and electrical design incorporated energy-efficient systems within the theatre’s tight envelope of precast concrete walls. Design elements were studied via BIM software for coordination with all construction trades including piping, ductwork, conduits, ceilings, stage sets, and catwalk. MEP design featured high efficiency, strategically located rooftop units with humidity control, and acoustical treatment that met sound criteria. A VRF system provides energy-efficient heating and cooling for the building’s theatre electronics.

Innovative electrical, plumbing, and fire suppression design helped provide the technology necessary for Phoenix’s contemporary performances. Important wayfinding lighting helps direct patrons to each theatre and showcase lighting compliments the art gallery. Additional consideration was given to accommodating the Black Box theatre with a light ceiling grid system allowing for multiple stage lighting locations.

In the theatre, because of the high ceiling and ornate sidewall aesthetic, delivery of appropriate emergency lighting can be complicated. This challenge was met by utilizing an emergency central inverter, which allows normal house lights to function in an emergency.

Occupancy sensors control lighting throughout the building as an energy conservation measure.

The plumbing design included low flow fixtures and equipping the stage area with special on-stage water and misting features for theatrical effects that can be drained within the pit below.

The electrical design team delivered an innovative first-of-its-kind, multi-stall unisex bathroom design with doors that control X and ß LED lighting elements and indicate stall availability. This design helped to create an equitable and efficient one-line system for public restrooms at the new venue.

The design was coordinated thru Revit for installation in tight spaces, accommodating elevations changes, ceilings, sets, and catwalks. The building incorporated the majority of the lot’s footprint, so space and budget considerations led to the recommendation of ten (10) 7.5 ton rooftop units with VAV cooling and natural gas heating.  Minimizing noise was key so RED recommended faceted walls help provide HVAC noise reduction. A high-efficiency VRF system provides critical zone heating and cooling for the Tech and AV area.