Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute Restoration
Updated: January 9, 2025
Early 2025
SPR is currently conducting pre-design work to refine the scope and better understand the cost of the needs. We anticipate beginning design in 2025 and construction in 2026 and 2027.
As of December 2024, the Langston Hughes building envelope assessment, accessibility and mechanical studies are underway. Osborn Architects is working on investigating the condition of the building envelope. Hunt Engineering is conducting HVAC and mechanical assessments to offer recommendations for mechanical and electrical improvements, coordinated with OSE decarbonization efforts. An in-house accessibility study is also underway, and the pre-design studies will be completed by the end of 2024.
Location
Langston Hughes Performing Art Center; 104 17th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98144
Budget
TBD
Project Description
The Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute Restoration project seeks to improve and extend the life of a critical cultural center and historic building. The project will make much-needed repairs to the building envelope, including repairs to masonry, window replacement, and re-roofing. It will also make accessibility improvements to parking, entrance and exits, restrooms, and theater seating areas to ensure that users of all abilities can attend and participate in programming and cultural events.
The project will update the HVAC system to improve comfort, controls and add cooling. If funding can be identified, Seattle Parks and Recreation (SPR) will seek to fully decarbonize the HVAC system. Other programmatic improvements for which SPR will work with Office of Arts and Culture and non-profit partners to fundraise include replacement of the main theater seating, renovation of the kitchen, and improvements to facilitate more smaller performances and simultaneous events.
Built in 1915, the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute (LHPAI) is a historic landmark in the historic Central Area of Seattle. Designed by B. Marcus Priteca, and formerly the Jewish Synagogue of Chevra Biku Cholim, the building became a community center and part of the City of Seattle's facilities in 1972. It underwent extensive renovations in 2011 to preserve its architectural character and update the facilities. It is now a community facility that may be rented for events and community programs. LHPAI partners with the new non-profit LANGSTON to continue being a center for African American arts and culture in Seattle.