Sarasota Orchestra released initial conceptual designs for a new Music Center at 5701 Fruitville Road, marking a major step in a multiphase design process led by architects at William Rawn Associates. As preliminary concepts, the designs provide an early look at Sarasota Orchestra’s vision for a transformative community asset. Further refinement and development will unfold in the schematic design phase, which is just getting underway.
“These early conceptual designs of the Music Center reflect the artistry and dedication of our team working closely with our architectural partners to bring this vision to life,” said Sarasota Orchestra President & CEO Joseph McKenna. “Our Music Center will enhance the region’s cultural landscape and create a prideful place that is truly unique for our community.”
Music Center Design Inspiration
The Music Center is envisioned as a welcoming and inspiring experience, carefully crafted for both artistic excellence and operational flexibility.
Natural light plays a key role in the design, visually connecting the Orchestra’s dual pillars of education and performance. The campus itself is a metaphor for a musician’s journey – educational spaces are bathed in morning light of the east, while performance spaces glow in the evening, symbolizing the evolution from student to professional.
Early designs also incorporate the region’s beauty, with glass facades, an open-air courtyard and strategically placed shading that create a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Inside the Music Center, visitors will find an inviting space where they can immerse themselves in the transformative power of live orchestral performances. At its heart will stand the Florida Gulf Coast’s first concert hall purpose-built for acoustic music.
“A sculptor working in bronze does not simply pour metal into a mold. They begin with clay. In much the same way, we are currently in the ‘clay stage’ of this process, where the forms are starting to take shape, the scale is becoming clearer and more layers of detail are emerging,” said Douglas Johnston, principal at William Rawn Associates. Cliff Gayley, the firm's Principal for Design adds, “While the Music Center design is not yet complete, a distinct sense of personality is beginning to take form.”
Next Steps in Music Center Design
The project is now progressing toward schematic design, during which architects will refine early plans based on additional input and technical analysis. The schematic design phase will further define the building’s form, programmatic needs and initial design intent, giving the Music Center a distinct character and personality beyond this initial model.
Sarasota Orchestra is collecting input from its board of directors, musicians, staff and donors, as well as arts community partners and neighbors adjacent to the site. Updated schematic designs are expected to be shared this fall.
