Madame Walker Theater Center Additions and Interior Renovations
CONTRACTOR: AECOM Hunt
PROJECT OWNER: Indiana University
LOCATION: INDIANAPOLIS, IN
BUDGET: $ 15 MILLION
COMPLETION: 2019
The Madame Walker Theater is an historic building that required a renovation project which would maintain the integrity of the existing structure. There were multiple additional elements to improve the overall functionality of the building including a new stage expansion, replacement of the elevator shaft, an addition to the front corner of the building, a new mechanical chase, and new and modified framing to accommodate architectural requirements. The project contained complex retrofit and required an innovative redesign that would complement the existing structure.
Cornerstone provided structural engineering services for the additions and renovations of the Madame Walker Theater. The replacement of the elevator shaft required a new foundation and modifications at each floor level. The existing roof penthouse was modified and expanded to accommodate the requirements for the new elevator. An interior opening to allow access to new restrooms was added, which penetrated through the largest truss in the building. Cornerstone designed and detailed modifications to the truss and floor framing to allow for this passageway. The aesthetic upgrade to the front corner of the building required a new foundation as well as framing that could be hidden within the architectural elements. These renovations provided necessary upgrades while maintaining the building’s historic image.
