Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts

Project Details

Project Description

The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts is counted among the finest performing arts venues in the world because of its superior acoustics, complex geometry and momentous spaces of exquisite design, detailing and construction. Designed by Moshe Safdie and Associates, in collaboration with renowned acoustician Yasuhisa Toyota and BNIM as joint architect of record, this facility was designed to produce near perfect acoustics, promising an exceptional experience for performers and audiences alike.

Recently completed, the new center provides two world-class performance halls for the resident organizations of the Kansas City Ballet, the Lyric Opera and the Kansas City Symphony and contains a 1,800-seat proscenium theater and a 1,600-seat concert hall.

Innovative Project Delivery: Using 3D Building Information Modeling (BIM), BNIM and the contractor, JE Dunn, are pioneering the use of this software for project delivery by digitally reviewing the project throughout construction. The contractor is “virtually” constructing the project to identify any interference between trades and to eliminate costly field issues during construction. This delivery method is more efficient, accurate and sustainable than traditional approaches.

The new Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts is one of the most significant cultural facilities in the Midwest and will have a transformative effect on Kansas City’s urban core, economy and thriving arts community. Not only does the new structure and venue contribute to the livability of the downtown area and add to the redevelopment efforts of the urban core, but also it will open a vital corridor between the heart of the city and the heart of the adjacent Crossroads Arts District.