The historic home of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra (SLSO) is about to get a makeover as Snøhetta has been named the lead designer for the expansion and modernization of its Midtown headquarters called Powell Hall.

The new 65,000-square-foot expansion will add space for education programs, a new lobby, and an enhanced backstage area for the orchestra musicians inside the 97-year-old building.

Snøhetta will center the expansion on a newly created welcome plaza that serves as a “lyrical” gateway to the orchestra’s patrons and ensemble members, the latter of which will be able to enjoy a backend addition featuring all-new rehearsal spaces, dressing rooms, recording suites, and much-needed storage areas.

We’re renovating and expanding!

Today marks the start of a new chapter for your SLSO and its historic home, Powell Hall, as we announce the first major renovation and expansion of the space that has been our home for more than 50 years.

Learn more https://t.co/U1SpgVJpKK pic.twitter.com/2B7fe8mGu4
— St. Louis Symphony Orchestra (@slso) March 16, 2022

According to SLSO President and CEO Marie-Hélène Bernard, the $100 million project will “improve every aspect of the audience and artist experience and will better support our mission as performer and educator, enriching lives through the power of music and fostering a sense of belonging for everyone.”

Bernard also told St. Louis' NPR station that she felt the Snøhetta-led effort would be a "game-changer." 

The original structure was created by noted 20th-century theater designers Rapp & Rapp and was acquired by the Symphony in 1966. Following a $2 million renovation, the 2,689-seat theater became the first permanent home of what is officially the county’s second oldest orchestral body beginning with its inaugural performance on January 24th, 1968. 

Powell Hall was later added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2001, and will soon stand able to breathe new life into the city’s already rich cultural landscape once the two-year expansion is completed in time for its centennial celebration in January of 2025.