The end is finally in sight for the two-year (and some change) renovation of the Robinson Center, but the excitement of the anxiously awaiting crowds is just starting to ramp up. The doors have been closed since July 1, 2014, and will open to the public this fall, just in time for the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra’s signature Opus Ball on November 12.
But before the big reveal, those doors are officially closing up tight to finish construction and, of course, to build anticipation. We just so happened to get one last look at the progress before everything becomes hush hush.
Behind the iconic columns, the nearly $70 million renovation includes an expanded and updated lobby (with a box office that will be open Monday-Friday), concessions on the lower and street levels, a grand staircase connecting three of the center’s four levels and new elevator access to the parking deck.
In the performance space, added side box seating and grand and upper tiers bring the total capacity to 2,214. The boxes will eventually be available to ASO and Celebrity Attractions season subscribers. Added height in the space — along with the daunting task of dropping the stage a hefty 36 feet — bring a much more intimate feel, pulling the audience closer to the stage.
On the back of the building is the grand ballroom with floor-to-ceiling windows facing Broadway and the Arkansas River, and which connects to the DoubleTree Hotel next door, greatly improving the conference space. Upstairs is the 5,800-SF wraparound terrace with an even more astounding view, as well as various meeting rooms with terrace access and river views.
In the upstairs lobby and meeting rooms, the crew decided to leave the original art deco-style, brick of the Robinson exposed. They’ve also enclosed a few of the Aztec masks that once donned the side of the structure, and completely restored elements of the 1939 lobby details like chandeliers and wall medallion replicas.
It’s not going to be easy to sit and wait until all the finishing touches are complete in November, but if the plans and progress are any indication, it’s going to be more than worth it. You can learn more about the renovation on the Robinson Center’s website.