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The new Performing Arts Center at Moanalua High School is designed as a civic cornerstone on campus, expanding the school’s nationally-recognized orchestra and performing arts programs. The narrow strip of available site on campus lent itself to two-sided functionality.  Facing the existing high school campus, the stage, makerspace and outdoor performance court can remain open for student use throughout the day. Facing the site entry, a grand entry pavilion and lanai stretch out from the lobby space as a civic arts center, both celebrating the unparalleled achievement of the musicians and openness for community use.

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More economical exterior finishes of light cast concrete and dark basalt masonry were used to visually divide civic and school functions. The entry experience is defined by wood-like siding panels leading guests from outside-in, past ticketing and concessions and into the performance hall.  Exterior wood tones hint at the warm wood interior of the theater and stage.  The experience is meant to be a seamless transition from outside to in, the light and open lobby contrasted by warm organic form and tone, an architectural preface that culminates in performance.

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