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RKTB Architects, P.C.

RKTB Architects, P.C.

New York, NY

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South Orange Performing Arts Center

Entertainment complex commissioned by the Village of South Orange in partnership with Seton Hall University, comprised of a 425-seat legitimate theatre, 5 movie theatres and a multipurpose community space (46,000 sf), 3 floors, Design-Build Live Theater: 414 Seats

SOPAC was commissioned by the Village of South Orange as an entertainment complex for residents and a means to attract outsiders to South Orange. The site itself presented the most challenging aspect of the project: designing a distinctive public building on a restricted budget, on a tight spot between a train station and parking lot. The concept included a legitimate theater, movie theater and community space. Due to budget constraints, all three functions were grouped into one building an brick, aluminum, precast concrete panels and glass were used for their affordability.

Seton Hall University eventually became a partner in the 46,000sf $13 million facility which includes a 425-seat auditorium for live performances, 5 first-run movie theaters and multi-purpose community space. RKTB worked with Arnell Construction Corp., the General Contractor, and a design/build team to deliver the completed project, providing value engineering which brought the cost down by 20%. SOPAC's grand opening was celebrated in November of 2006.

 
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Status: Built
Location: South Orange, NJ
Firm Role: Architect
Additional Credits: Photographer Credit: Albert Vecerka