The Dallas Theater Center (DTC) has announced that New York City-based architects Diller Scofidio + Renfro have been selected to renovate the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Kalita Humphreys Theater in Dallas, Texas.

According to a press release unveiled by the DTC, the “renovation efforts aim to preserve the theater’s distinct architecture while equipping it to inspire a new generation.” As part of the project, the architects will create a master plan for the nine-acre site that will include new theater spaces as well as a connection to the Katy Trail, a public jogging and cycling path that cuts through part of the city. A goal of the project is to keep up with “Wright’s organic, nature-inspired vision,” by “making the entire site an accessible public space for all,” according to the press release. 

The building is the only publicly accessible structure designed by Wright in the state of Texas, it is also the only free-standing theater Wright designed that was built during his lifetime, according to the group. Inside, the complex features a revolving stage that “exemplifies Wright’s Organic Theory of architecture, which stressed the unification of the building’s form and function, the harmony of the building’s structure with its natural setting, and the aesthetically pleasing manipulation of space,” according to the press release. 

In a statement, chair of the DTC board, Jennifer Altabef, said, “The renovations to the Kalita Humphreys Theater will prepare it to host productions by Dallas Theater Center and other theater companies for generations to come, while honoring the beauty and innovation of Frank Lloyd Wright’s original design.” Altabef added, “the creation of two smaller theaters will allow DTC and other local companies to perform regularly on the site, in harmony with the goals of the new Dallas Cultural Plan.”

Architect Charles Renfro, a Texas native, said in the announcement, “Since it was built, the theater’s bucolic setting between Turtle Creek and the Katy Trail has been overwhelmed by parking lots and roadways. Our approach will seek to slow the site down and add new architecturally significant programs grown out of the surrounding urban green. The Kalita Humphreys complex will be an idyllic and iconic refuge surrounded by nature, merely footstepsaway from the bustling city.”

It is expected that the architects and DTC will present the plan for municipal approval sometime later this year.