The DeBartolo Performing Arts Center was conceived as a timeless piece of architecture, drawing from the Gothic architectural traditions of the university, while contemporary in the design of its interior spaces. The design of the center provides a comprehensive performance facility for the university as well as the entire South Bend community. Envisioned as a regional resource that enhances the university’s contribution to the arts, its programming broadens the cultural offerings available to patrons of all ages and backgrounds while also providing a primary venue for its diverse performing-arts curriculum and creating a focal point and gateway for the university. The new center not only offers greatly enhanced performance spaces, but also allows the university’s music and film/television departments to grow and expand significantly. The facility includes a variety of performing and educational spaces organized around a central public lobby designed to foster interaction between students, faculty, and the community.

This project was designed by Pfeiffer prior to joining Perkins Eastman.