WMAIA 2024 Design Awards
CITATION AWARD
Bonham & Douglas Architects, Northampton, MA
For over 130 years, the 800-seat Academy of Music Theatre has been a cornerstone of cultural life in the community and has visually heralded your arrival to the heart of downtown Northampton.
Outside, our design introduces a marquee canopy that harmoniously integrates with the existing building facade, creating a covered outdoor gathering space and establishing a prominent entrance. Inside, decorative paint and plaster were beautifully reinvigorated and seating and pathways were reconfigured for increased accessibility. A sense of grandeur was reinstated with the installation of a new two-tier chandelier, which had been missing above the main seating area for over six decades.
The revitalization of this historic venue provides a safer, more comfortable, and more resilient building to ensure this dynamic community resource will continue to thrive for generations to come.
Photos by Leigh Chodos
