The Santa Fe Opera - Masterplan

The Santa Fe Opera retained MAD in 2013 to develop a master plan for the expansion of this world-renowned 2,128 person Opera facility. In order to not disturb the summer performances during construction, the project was built between the 2014, 2015 and 2016 seasons.

The Santa Fe Opera Master Plan and Expansion included the enhancement and enlargement of spaces for performers, production, and patrons, amidst planning for the summer opera performances to continue undisturbed during construction. During Phase 1 of the master plan project, new production facilities were designed for the fabrication of larger scenery and costume making, while accommodating state of the art mechanical and fabrication systems. Critically expanding existing programs adjacent to the Crosby Theater during Phase 2, backstage spaces for performers were improved and additional audience amenities were introduced to include new outdoor and indoor gathering spaces.

The architectural language had to thoughtfully respond to the existing theater and ancillary structures with an updated take on contextual, environmentally sensitive construction. While also considering the local climate, the open-air nature of many spaces was designed for the usage of passive systems for operation while framing dramatic views of the mountains to the East and West, distinctive of the Southwest.

The Poole Production center was increased by 25,000sf to 38,000sf while creating new outdoor plaza spaces for Opera guests to pre-performance and during intermission. The production center included multiple fabrication shops with complex state of the art mechanical systems, and greatly improved stage wing level spaces for backstage activities. The new three story Wyncote Opera Club was designed to provide 8,500sf of open lounge spaces and concessions, while introducing an elevator and bridge access to the Theater’s balcony. The building is carefully designed to sit along the main access road and completes the main public façade of the Crosby Theater. Audience amenities are greatly expanded with new restroom facilities and additional plaza gathering areas along the lower level. Lighting and finish materials were sensitively introduced in order to treat interior and exterior areas with elegance, while considering the New Mexico climate and the open nature of portions of the building.