Part 1 | aethesis

Comprising of two main levels, a sub- level, a level 2 mezzanine, and a catwalk level, the Calvin and Janet High Center puts its focus on the performing arts - boasting numerous teaching studios and practice spaces, as well as, an instrument hall, instrument rehearsal area, a recording studio, and a music library. The main attraction of the building is Parmer Hall, a 900 seat auditorium space that features lower and upper levels of seating. The structure is built into a hill giving the appearance of a much taller building on the back end where you enter into the sub-level. While the attached existing fine arts center received renovations during the construction process, the main focus was on making the High Center an acoustically superior space.

Applicable Codes:

Americans with Disabilities Act
International Building Code - 2009
- IBC 2009 Reference Standards
International Plumbing Code - 2009
National Electric Code - 2009
International Mechanical Code - 2009
International Fire Code - 2009
International Energy Conservation Code - 2009
International Fuel Gas Code - 2009
2003 ANSI A 117.1
ASCE 7-05 - Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures

Zoning:

Messiah College is located in the Institutional Zoning District of Upper Allen Township in Cumberland County, PA, just above the southern township border.

Historical Requirements:

There were no historical considerations for the design of this building.

Building Enclosure

The facade of the building is a combination of pre-finished aluminum framed, IGL glazed curtain wall and insulated glass separated by brick veneer embellished with stone bands. Towards the bottom of the wall, the brick veneer gives way to sturdy CMU, while the large roof cornices are clad in pre-finished aluminum composite panel. The portion of the building which is set back from the street is prefinished metal insulated panels as well. There is fully adhered EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) roof membrane overlapping the bottom metal panels on the higher auditorium walls and continuing onto the roof, where the membrane covers R-21 (min.) insulation.

The brick serves as a tie to the existing arts center building, while the metal and glass give the High Center a more modern look. The exterior also serves as the first line of defense in blocking the sound of a nearby train from entering the performance spaces.

Sustainability Features

Automatic sun-shades are installed on the interior of all windows on the south and west walls to control solar gain and day-lighting.

Calvin and Janet High Center for Worship and Performing Arts

Mechanicsburg, PA

Jessica Padilla | Structural Option

Adviser: Dr. Aly Said