Theatre Squared
Fayetteville, AR
Theatre Design: Charcoal Blue
Architect: Marvel Designs
General Contractor: Baldwin & Shell
Millwork: Delta Millworks
Photography: Kristian Alveo
Video: Pearl MF
Original Series
People
History & Vision
TheatreSquared is a well-known professional theatre in Northwest Arkansas, where the arts are valued. Artistic Director Bob Ford and his wife, Amy, dreamed of bringing a professional theatre to Fayetteville. They teamed up with another couple from Seattle who wanted to start a children’s theatre. Their combined vision led to the creation of TheatreSquared, named for its location on the Fayetteville square and its aim to entertain both adults and children. After two years of planning, TheatreSquared collaborated with the Walton Arts Center to launch productions. For 14 years, it operated out of a multipurpose room at the arts center, which had a large stage and only six rows of seats. This close setting created an intimate experience, defining TheatreSquared's identity.
TheatreSquared became a cherished part of Fayetteville but outgrew its location. They decided to build a new theatre and shared their vision with The Walton Family Foundation, which agreed to support the project. The foundation offered to cover all design costs and a third of construction costs through its Design Excellence program, which backs a few public building projects each year.
This unique opportunity allowed TheatreSquared to design a space that truly reflected its values. Architecture firms Charcoal Blue and Marvel worked together on the design. Before showing any designs, Marvel spent time discussing TheatreSquared's ideas and values. They aimed to keep the connection audiences had with the stage while creating a warm and transparent space that reflects human experiences and emphasizes sustainability. With these goals, the design team worked collaboratively to create the ideal space for the theatre’s needs.
Design & Construction Photos
Obstacles
As the vision turned into reality, the design and building teams faced challenges. The biggest issue was the nearby train that had disrupted performances at TheatreSquared's previous location. The loud noise and vibrations made it hard to enjoy shows. To solve this, the design team created three separate theatre boxes made of solid concrete, which is effective at blocking sound. The concrete walls were layered with wool mineral insulation, a stud wall with more insulation, and a finished wood layer, resulting in excellent acoustics.
Another challenge was the concrete's cold appearance. TheatreSquared wanted the building to feel warm and inviting, so they made wood textures in the exterior concrete to mimic natural wood. Morris Vines, Project Superintendent for Baldwin and Shell Construction, highlighted that achieving the right wood impressions was difficult because the concrete would be visible. He noted that ensuring all materials aligned perfectly was the toughest part of a project with many design elements.
The design team needed to add seating in the theatres for larger audiences while keeping the intimate feel of TheatreSquared productions. They made the theatres wider but kept the same length as before, adding 100 seats with fewer rows. The new theatres also feature a second-story circle level to further increase seating while maintaining audience engagement.
Standout Features
The design of the TheatreSquared project posed challenges, but the final outcome made it worthwhile. Key features of the new building stem from the creative use of materials. The Kebony Shou Sugi Ban cladding, charred by Delta Millworks, enhances the concrete exterior. Kebony was chosen for its sustainability and durability, effective against weathering. The Shou Sugi Ban technique not only charred the wood but also protects it from rot, decay, and pests.
TheatreSquared focused on sustainability throughout the design and building process. They reclaimed materials to reduce waste; for example, boards used for wood impressions in the exterior concrete were repurposed for interior walls. Additionally, trees cut down on the site were transformed into tables, chairs, and benches for the theatre. Materials were intentionally chosen for their connection to Fayetteville and Arkansas.
These thoughtful decisions aimed to showcase wood at every life stage—from raw to finished to charred. The selected materials will improve with time and highlight human interaction. The process is vital in the arts, reflected in the detailed design of TheatreSquared.
Photography
