The Louise McCabe Performing Arts Center was the final project of Denver Academy’s Building on Excellence 50th Anniversary campaign. The 250-seat theater replaced the former gymnasium building on campus, and, while utilitzing a similar palette to the adjacent buildings, provides a modern crescendo to the campus architecture. The lobby invites students from the grade 2-12 campus to music, choral, set design and theater classes, but also welcomes parents and teachers to the experience the theater through the performances of the students.

The inspiration for the architecture and interior design stemmed from three guiding principles: LIGHT, MATERIAL, MOVEMENT. A dynamic discovery of history, texture and the guiding lantern that can embrace students of all ages and diversities.

• Completed: Fall 2023

• Size: 16,000 sf

• Location: Denver, Colorado

• Contractor: JHL Constructors

• Photography by Parrish Ruiz de Velasco