Grand Rapids, MI (2024)
Project Size: xxx Sq. Ft

Dogstory Theater transforms a former pizza parlor in a 100+ year-old, historically contributing structure into a black-box theatre for a small community theatre company. Located within the Heritage Hill Historic District, the project required careful navigation of preservation concerns, building codes, and fire safety standards to adapt the aging structure for assembly use.

Key updates include an ADA-compliant restroom, a ramp connecting to the rear parking lot, and new basement structural supports. These interventions ensure accessibility, safety, and longevity while respecting the building’s historic character.

Within the theatre, a ceiling-mounted curtain defines the programmatic layout. Acting as a flexible, minimally invasive “wall,” the curtain allows the space to adapt functionally, while adding visual interest and identity. Parametrically designed, it responds to a series of intentional “pinch” points: thick acoustic fabric is pleated and threaded with thin metal cords, gathered at key intervals, and secured with rubber and metal stoppers. The undulating texture operates as a balance between the simplicity of the black box theatre and the articulated wall surface of a baroque theatre.

The result is a theatre that seamlessly inhabits a space never meant for performance, establishing its own distinct identity with minimal yet transformative interventions.

This project was completed in collaboration with:

Travis Williams - Principal in Charge, Project Manager
Kasey Vliet - ?
Elpis Wong - Design
Taylor Boes - Design

Structural Consultant - SDI Structures