The Transformation Begins NOW
The Arts Commons Transformation (ACT) is poised to begin, marking a new era for Western Canada’s largest performing arts centre. The three project partners—Arts Commons, The City of Calgary and Calgary Municipal Land Corporation (CMLC)—are working in concert to realize this landmark transformation, the most significant arts facility development currently underway in Canada.
Introducing Act’s Accomplished Team of Designers & Architects
On February 9, 2022, the Arts Commons Transformation (ACT) project partners announced ACT’s prime design team—an impressive collection of global and local leaders in architecture and design who will bring a rich variety of perspectives and specialties to the project.
Leading the team is Toronto-based KPMB , an architectural firm with proven expertise in major arts and theatre upgrades including Toronto’s Massey Hall + Allied Music Centre and the Banff Centre for Arts & Creativity.
To ensure the Indigenous perspective is thoughtfully woven into all aspects of ACT’s design, Tawaw Architecture Collective Inc., headed by Calgarian Wanda Dalla Costa (Canada’s first female Indigenous architect), will work closely with KPMB.
Rounding out the project team are Calgary-based Hindle Architects, a trusted local firm with a history of successful projects around Calgary, and SLA, an internationally renowned nature based design studio out of Denmark.
“ACT will help make Calgary an even more livable city by giving Calgarians and our visitors improved access to a wide variety of arts and culture experiences—and more gathering spaces in which to enjoy them. Through this transformation, Arts Commons is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive and welcoming place for all—and to enhancing our citizens’ quality of life by expanding the ways they can connect with the arts and their community”, shared Alex Sarian, President and CEO of Arts Commons.
Work has now begun on concept design for the expansion, with construction set to begin in 2024. Learn more about the project at artscommons.ca/ACT.
