Holabird & Root designed the conversion of a former canning plant into the City of Hartford, Wisconsin’s Schauer Arts and Activities Center.

The 600-seat Ruth A. Knoll Theater accommodates touring groups and shows and features a state-of-the-art performance stage complete with a choir loft, balconies, control booths, and lighting catwalks. Backstage support spaces include dressing and make-up rooms, and rehearsal halls.

The design required the removal of the original timber frame supported by timber posts and beams to create a space 60’ wide, 90’ long, and 28’ high for the new theater. Holabird & Root’s designs for exhibit cases, benches, shelves, and a grand staircase utilize the salvaged wood pieces.