WHITAKER CENTER FOR SCIENCE AND THE ARTS
CDA’s first client was Whitaker Center, and the most recently completed project—painting upgrades to public spaces—was Chris Dawson’s 8th project for Whitaker over the course of 10 years. Completed projects include multiple vestibule additions, adding a Starbucks, and architectural improvements required to accommodate popular new exhibits like Forces of Nature, Move-It, Carnival of Health, Kidsplace, and Backstage Studio.
For the vestibule project, CDA developed the design of new vestibules for the Market Street and Third Street entrances to address energy consumption concerns at the Whitaker Center. The design was rooted in respect for the existing curtainwall systems, designed by Hardy Holzman Pfeiffer Associates, and the approach was to design the new components to feel like they could have been there the day the Center opened in 1999. CDA also made subtle improvements to the design by using an accent color at the entrance doors, improving the flooring, adding accent lighting, and integrating the Whitaker logo into sidelite panels.
| Size: | Varies |
| Location: | Harrisburg, PA |
| Cost: | $2.2 million |
| Completed: | 2009 – 2012 |
Working with CDA was a pleasure. They balanced the architectural vision and the project realities beautifully, had a deep understanding of our priorities, and operated responsively and professionally to all matters. The blend of their personal style and an understanding of ours led to a beautiful, practical, and unique center.
