Reflecting its multidisciplinary ethos and passion for the arts, Brown University’s new Lindemann Performing Arts Center (LPAC) is an innovative and highly flexible venue. The initial goal of developing a space to accommodate performances of varying sizes and needs seemed daunting. However, through the clever design of diverse configurations and impressive automation features, the project team achieved a visually striking and highly functional result that shapes the campus while serving its students.

The hall’s features such as retractable acoustic curtains and flexible cable carriers enable it to host virtually all of the existing performance groups on campus. Forward-thinking design features encourage experimentation to explore and discover new art forms as well. With over 500 seats and five different performance configurations, this new contribution to Brown’s campus opens up endless possibilities. Arup contributed mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) engineering, and at concept acoustic consulting, audiovisual, and theatre consulting services.

This project is the fourth Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) endeavor Arup has carried out in partnership with Brown University. IPD processes seek to build trust between designers, contractors, and end users. Arup’s MEP team led the Building Systems PIT (Project Implementation Team), collaborating with MEP trade partners to develop and optimize the building systems design of this one-of-a-kind facility.