Cincinnati Music Hall

Constructed in 1878, and designated as a National Historic Landmark, the Cincinnati Music Hall is home to the Cincinnati Arts Association, the Cincinnati Symphony and Pops Orchestra, the Cincinnati Opera, the Cincinnati Ballet, and the May Festival Chorus.

After years spent in decline, and as a result of the tireless efforts of multiple advocacy groups dedicated to preserving the structure, the hall received approval for an $83 million renovation concept in 2014. The venue was awarded allocation for a $25 million State Historic Tax Credit in 2015. With funding comprised of State and Federal Historic Tax Credit, the Music Hall’s final design was required to meet the Secretary of Interior’s Standard for rehabilitation of historic buildings, including approval from the Ohio State Historic Preservation Office and the National Parks Service.

Working as Design Architect, and in partnership with Perfido Weiskopf Wagstaff + Goettel, Executive Architect, our team established a comprehensive and economically feasible scope for the rehabilitation and modernization of the venue. Our program of work includes the redesign of the performing arts facilities to improve accessibility, acoustics, and the overall patron experience; the preservation and restoration of this historic landmark to national standards; the economization of operational and back of house areas; and the execution of lasting structural improvements to secure the building’s longevity and renew its relevance in the community. The project received an AIA Award of Excellence as well as Platinum Reconstruction Award from Building Design + Construction.