The University of Southern California has hired the MATT team for the adaptive reuse of the historic United University Church on campus. The adaptive reuse of the chapel and lower level of the building for performance and office spaces will provide a centralized location for the School of Dramatic Arts, currently distributed in multiple buildings across the campus. Built in the 1930s, the building requires seismic upgrades, completely new mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, and a 3-story addition for classroom and office spaces. The scope of the project includes the creation of a new performance venue in the existing chapel space and creating a new cabaret theater that functions as a flexible environment for student interaction and as a cabaret performance space. The development of additional classroom spaces will allow for rehearsal, teaching and enhanced use of digital media within the school.
Construction challenges include operating in a prime location on an active campus, as well as maintaining the many historic elements of the building while gutting and repurposing the entire space.