825 Arts
Revitalized theater design to continue to spotlight the diverse voices of a prominent Twin Cities community.
Facts & Stats
Client
825 Arts
Market Type
Government
Square Footage
5,500 SF
Location
St. Paul, Minnesota
Completion Date
August 2024
Global Impact Stat
Restoring 100+ Years of Community History
The Victoria Theater, a historic community arts building with over a century of history, has been revitalized through extensive community collaboration involving local residents, artists, and leaders. This collaborative effort ensured that the redesigned space, now known as 825 ARTS, reflects the community’s needs and aspirations. The intention was to create a vibrant hub for cultural expression and engagement, aligning with the Frogtown Neighborhood Association‘s mission to highlight the diverse voices and talents within this prominent Twin Cities community. By fostering an inclusive environment, 825 ARTS celebrates Frogtown’s cultural heritage and contemporary creativity, ensuring the theater remains a cornerstone of community life.
Location
St. Paul, Minnesota
AIA MN Honor Award for Excellence in Design for Equitable Communities, Economy, Resources, and Integration
Jury comment: “We love how the project embraced the story of the place and used as-found moments in the building to celebrate the layers of time. This building has been renewed because the community engaged with it – not because the project had a significant budget. The design demonstrates how economical interventions can yield incredible value. Even the simple, selective insertion of color like yellow brings new life to the layers of history.”
The renovation of Victoria Theater revitalized a once-vacant, culturally significant community arts building into a sleek, multi-purpose performance space and gathering area, now known as 825 ARTS. To support the transformation, MCE upgraded the existing infrastructure of the historic building.
We successfully designed a fully electrified building while maintaining the community’s vibrant essence and rich history. This approach supported the multifaceted needs of the space—from performances to presentations—allowing it to carry on its tradition as an artistic collective while being environmentally friendly.
To accomplish the sustainable revival of the theater, our team implemented new electrical and mechanical systems, HVAC systems, and specialty lighting to ensure comfort for both artists and audiences. Additionally, new integrated automation and power distribution systems were installed to promote energy efficiency and sustainable practices. Safety and security were also prioritized, with the addition of new fire protection, fire alarm, and video surveillance systems.
The revitalized 825 ARTS serves as a vibrant hub for contemporary art, hosting a diverse array of events such as art fairs, musical and theatrical performances, and seminars on significant cultural topics. Through collaboration with the community and our design partners, we enhanced both the functionality and aesthetics of the space, ensuring that the historic elements of the theater were preserved. This project not only rejuvenated a historic landmark but also created a sustainable, multi-purpose venue that continues to inspire and engage the community.
Site photography: © Corey Gaffer Photography – Corey Gaffer Photography
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