Diamond Schmitt unveils designs for Buddy Holly Hall performing arts center

Diamond Schmitt Architects released plans for the Buddy Holly Hall of Performing Arts and Sciences, a musical arts complex in Lubbock, Texas.

The venue is named after the influential star of the 1950s and one of the founding fathers of rock and roll music. Holly, who was born in Lubbock and who died in 1959, is labeled a rockabilly artist. But he was influenced by a number of genres, including rhythm and blues, gospel, and country.

It makes sense then that versatility is one of the defining features of the hall. It will feature a 2,200-seat main theater, a smaller 400-seat theater, a 22,000-sf dance center, and a 5,000-sf multipurpose room. The hall will host everything from Broadways plays, to operas, to rock shows. Conferences and other gatherings can be held there as well.

“Our goal is to have this venue feel great for all types of performers and audiences, whether they are in jeans and hats or ball gowns,” Matthew Lella, Principal, Diamond Schmitt, said in a statement.

The floor of the main auditorium is adjustable, where it can be raked for seating or flat for a standing audience. The acoustical design allows for natural sound for orchestras, and amplified sound for touring bands. Buddy Holly Hall also has a spacious public lobby, a 200-foot telecommunications tower, and a swooping roof with cascading columns.

Fully funded by private donations, the hall has raised $81 million, with a goal of $146 million. Also on the Building Team are Garfield Public/Private; Parkhill, Smith, & Cooper; MWM Architects; Hugo Reed & Associates; Jaffe Holden Acoustics; Schuler Shook;  and Lee Lewis Construction.

Reports say that the builders are still on track to meet construction deadlines despite an increased budget. Construction will begin later this year, and the opening is scheduled for 2019.