The REACH set to welcome visitors in 2019

The global TenderStream business leads service includes notifications for US Federal Government bids, and has recently supplied its members with information about architectural design opportunities at the John F Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington DC. Among these are recent calls for a team to reimagine aspects of the space as a living memorial to its namesake, and an upgrade to the existing Israeli Lounge. 

Now, the Kennedy Center leadership has announced that the first expansion in the institution’s 47-year history will open to the public on 7th September 2019. Designed by Steven Holl Architects with BNIM, the REACH is a 4.6-acre project featuring 72,000 sq ft of new interior space, expanding the public areas by more than 20% and nearly doubling the outdoor volume.

Conceived as a nexus of arts, learning, and culture, the REACH will offer visitors and artists fresh opportunities to engage with cultural activities. The unique design gives public access to works-in-progress, and supplies much-needed rehearsal and classroom space.
 
At a hard hat tour for civic and cultural leaders from across the Washington DC region, President Deborah F Rutter commented: “More and more, today’s audiences crave connection—with art and with each other—while artists and arts organisations desire customised spaces that nurture their creative endeavours. The REACH will fulfil many of those needs, all within a one-of-a-kind design that is a work of art in and of itself.”

Design highlights include three contiguous, interconnected pavilions featuring soaring ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows. Outside, an outdoor stage and video wall will host concerts and film screenings, while a green roof and 130,000 sq ft of landscaping will provide opportunities for art installations, performances, and recreation. 

The Center leadership also announced that its Building the Future capital campaign goal is now $250 million, an increase that reflects philanthropic interest, ongoing programmatic opportunities, and increased project costs. The new goal is an increase from the $175 million set in 2015. To date, the campaign has raised $170 million.

Lucy Nordberg
TenderStream Head of Research

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