Jody Kovalick

The Paramount Theater renovation and expansion restored the theatre from a dilapidated facility to a thriving performing arts centre. The 1,000-seat venue is producing and presenting a wide variety of arts, education, and entertainment events with the goal of reaching diverse audiences.

Schuler Shook was involved in the original pre-design of the facility, the shaping of the theatre and support spaces, and the design and specifications of the technical equipment systems.

This new 7,500-seat worship centre in South Barrington replaced the 4,500-seat facility that the church had outgrown. The new facility houses a 94′ W x 57′ H proscenium and 3‑axis LED screens that can project live feeds as well as pre-recorded scenes.

One of the main goals for the new worship facility was to retain an intimate feel and sense of closeness while almost doubling the overall seating capacity. Schuler Shook designed a forestage lift as part of the design solution to create intimacy in the new worship centre. The lift lowers from stage level to audience level, bringing the pastor closer to the congregants. The lift also lowers 20′ below stage level, providing access to the scene shop located on the lower level.

Schuler Shook also designed manual and motorised stage rigging, including five motorised light bridges for the church, and provided general planning assistance.