REX Unveils Design for WTC Performing Arts Center

The performing arts center has been an ingredient in World Trade Center's redevelopment since Daniel Libeskind's winning master plan in 2003, but it has been a question mark since Frank Gehry's plan for the building was shelved. REX entered the picture last year when they won an invited competition for the building. The project's security was ensured in June 2016 when billionaire Ronald O. Perelman donated $75 million, or about one-third of its projected cost. This morning's unveiling comes two days before the 15th anniversary of the attacks on the World Trade Center.

REX's design stuffs three auditoriums (for 499, 250, and 99 people) into a cubic volume that is covered in translucent, veined marble laminated within insulated glass. A grand stair oriented toward the September 11 Memorial provides the main access to the interior. The flexible performance spaces sit in the middle of the plan, while circulation rings the perimeter.

For more images and plans of the Perelman Performing Arts Center, visit REX's profile on NewYork-Architects.

The building is expected to be completed in 2020.