Revitalizing Sacramento’s Heart: The Transformation of the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center

09 Dec 2024

The SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center, originally opened in 1976 as the Sacramento Community Center Theater, has undergone a significant transformation, rejuvenating a once aging brutalist structure. The building, which had been disconnected from the surrounding urban fabric, was in need of a comprehensive redesign to meet the growing demands of modern performances. The project, led by DLR Group, focused on opening the building to the city, ensuring it blends harmoniously with its surroundings while retaining its unique identity. The transformation involved not only aesthetic upgrades but also modernizing the infrastructure to create a welcoming environment for the public.

Inspired by Sacramento’s identity as the “City of Trees,” the design concept weaves natural elements throughout the space, both inside and out. The exterior, which was once dominated by opaque concrete, is now characterized by a dynamic and transparent facade, offering glimpses of the activities within. A lacy scrim, designed to evoke the feeling of a tree canopy, surrounds the formal lobby and extends to an outdoor room, creating dappled light patterns that enhance the visitor experience. Inside, the design fosters a sense of discovery, with moments like custom carpeting that mimic fallen leaves and a monumental art installation titled ‘Cacophony,’ all contributing to a narrative that surprises and delights visitors with each visit.

Acoustic enhancement was a major priority for the renovation, as the original building’s sound quality was poor, hindering the performance experience. DLR Group incorporated California's largest electro-acoustic enhancement system, drastically improving the acoustics of the performance space. The new design ensures that the acoustics are optimal throughout the venue, with no seat being acoustically compromised. The orchestra pit and seating were also redesigned, providing both visual and auditory improvements. These changes have helped create a space where both performers and audience members can fully experience the richness of live performances.

The revitalization of the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center has not only improved the venue’s function but also had a significant impact on the community. By integrating the building with Sacramento’s downtown district, the transformation has enhanced the urban experience, bringing new life to the city center. The modernized building now serves as a vibrant cultural hub, offering a unique venue for performances while providing an inviting space that encourages visitors to return time and again. This renovation has successfully revitalized one of Sacramento’s most important landmarks, ensuring that it remains a cultural institution for future generations.

Tags:

SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center, DLR Group, Sacramento architecture, arts center renovation, city of trees, acoustic renovation, community-focused design, sustainable building design, Sacramento arts, urban revitalization