Hill Auditorium Renovation and Expansion

The University of Michigan’s Hill Auditorium, originally built in 1913 and designed by Albert Kahn, is considered one of the great classic concert halls of the world. Albert Kahn Associates was commissioned to transform the historic, but aging, gem into a state-of-the-art performance venue while retaining its historic elements and character. Mr. Welkenbach coordinated and provided a design and cost feasibility study for several options to expand and renovate Hill Auditorium that helped lead to the commission granted by the University regents. Mr. Welkenbach also provided architectural support in development of the design and construction documents for the renovation and expansion project.

Major client goals were the restoration of historic features, increased patron comfort and accessibility, building code compliance upgrades, and the replacement and modernization of the building’s mechanical and electrical systems. Key project features included restoration of the auditorium, public lobbies, monumental stairs and plaza entrance; creation of a new lower lobby with restrooms, concessions and exhibit space for the University’s rare musical instrument collection; introduction of two elevators; new seating; new west entrance; large below-grade mechanical room addition; and a comprehensive building system renewal, including the replacement of all plumbing, heating, ventilating systems and introduction of air-conditioning. Special care was taken to ensure that changes did not detract from the hall’s acoustics, which have been praised by world-class performance artists since the hall was first completed. The project construction was completed in 2004.