Stage Guild Theater

As both lead designer and Project Manager for WDG Architecture, I led the comprehensive design of a sophisticated 12,000-square-foot theater space planned for Washington Stage Guild in downtown Washington, DC. This performing arts venue, which was incorporated as a cultural development requirement within a new office building, was envisioned to feature a 250-seat theater with a semi-thrust stage, complete with fly space and supporting facilities. The design took full advantage of the two-level space, with the street level accommodating the upper lobby and administrative offices, connected to the theater level below by a dramatic monumental stair. This architectural feature was designed to create a ceremonial descent for patrons arriving at street level, leading them to the main theater lobby, performance space, and back-of-house facilities including dressing rooms and green room.

Beyond developing the theater's design concept, my responsibilities encompassed full project oversight, from initial space planning through permitted design documentation. I managed the intricate coordination between our architectural team, interior designers, and consulting engineers while ensuring seamless integration with the base building systems and compliance with complex code requirements. A signature element of the project was the entry marquee, designed to thoughtfully complement the building's existing architectural character while establishing a distinct identity for the theater. Although the project ultimately did not move forward due to funding challenges faced by the non-profit theater company, the completed design successfully balanced the technical demands of a performing arts venue with the constraints of a tenant build-out in a commercial high-rise setting.