The Center for Puppetry Arts is the largest U.S. organization dedicated exclusively to puppet theater, serving the public through performance, exhibition and education. To support its growing programming and collections, the project delivers a 20,400 sq. ft. core and shell addition that creates new home for the International Gallery and the Jim Henson Gallery—now housing the world’s largest collection of the iconic puppeteer’s work.
Client
Center for Puppetry Arts
Location
Suwanee, Georgia
Photographer
Bob Hughes
Completed
2016
Size
20,400 sq. ft. addition
Services
Architecture, Interior Design, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering
From the outset, the design focused on how visitors experience the Center upon arrival. The original entry was not clearly visible from the street, creating a disconnect between the site and the visitor journey. The new addition reorients that experience, using form, geometry and playful detailing to create a clear and welcoming point of arrival that reflects the spirit of the institution.
The expansion introduces flexible, multi-purpose spaces that support school groups, educational programming and after-hours events, along with a larger museum store, updated restrooms and a warming kitchen for catered functions. Interior renovations to the existing building include updated finishes and essential restoration work to maintain and extend the life of the original structure.
Design development explored multiple massing options to balance visibility, circulation and program needs. The selected solution uses a shifting rectangular form that responds to pedestrian flow and strengthens the building’s presence on site while maintaining a sense of movement and discovery appropriate to the Center’s mission.
Graphic patterns integrated into the façade reference the “Harlequin Room,” a space dedicated to school-age visitors, drawing from its colorful, diamond-based motif. This approach reinforces continuity between new and existing spaces while creating a visual identity that resonates with the Center’s educational focus.
The project also improves operational performance and visitor experience across the campus, while achieving LEED Silver certification—reflecting a commitment to both cultural enrichment and environmental responsibility.
