The United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT) has announced the winners of its 2025 Architecture Awards, recognizing exceptional design achievements in performing arts facilities. The awards, sponsored by the USITT Architecture Commission, celebrate 25 years of honoring architects who elevate theatre design and enhance artistic experience.
Winners will be honored on March 6 during the USITT25 Conference & Stage Expo in Columbus, where the Awards Ceremony will be followed by the official opening of the Expo floor.
Honor Award: The Tom Patterson Theatre, Stratford, Ontario
Owner: Stratford Festival Theatres
Architect: Hariri Pontarini Architects
Theatre Consultants: Fisher Dachs Associates
Acoustic Consultants: Aercoustics Engineering
A breathtaking achievement in modern theatre architecture, the Tom Patterson Theatre represents a visionary collaboration between the Stratford Festival and Hariri Pontarini Architects. The result is a state-of-the-art venue that merges architectural sophistication with technical excellence, offering an environment that supports and inspires artistic creation.
“The partnership resulted in a venue that is visually stunning, supportive of every artistic endeavor, timeless in design, and at the forefront of modern technology,” the Stratford Festival said.
Merit Award: Gordon Center for Creative and Performing Arts, Colby College, Maine
Owner: Colby Arts College
Architect: William Rawn Associates
Theatre Consultant: Nextstage Design
Acoustical Engineer: Kirkegaard
Designed to push the boundaries of creative expression, the Gordon Center stands as a technically sophisticated and inspiring facility for student artists. It fosters exploration across performing arts disciplines, providing spaces that encourage innovation and interdisciplinary learning.
“It’s a center of creativity that will offer all students the opportunity to engage in the creative process and take that spirit of innovation into their lives and work,” noted the college.
Merit Award: Ohio State University Arts District, Columbus, Ohio
Owner: Ohio State University
Architect: DLR Group in collaboration with Robert A.M. Stern Architects (RAMSA)
Theatre Consultant & Acoustic Consultant: DLR Group
The Ohio State University Arts District redefines campus engagement by connecting multiple arts disciplines through transparent, interactive design. Its shared arts plaza and public social spaces create an open, inclusive environment that welcomes both students and the wider community into the creative process.
“The design creates a high-quality learning environment for interaction across all arts disciplines,” said OSU representatives.
A Milestone in Theatre Architecture
Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the USITT Architecture Awards continue to champion projects that reflect creativity, functionality, and inclusivity in the performing arts. The 2025 winners exemplify how thoughtful design can both serve artistic excellence and inspire future generations of creators.
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