IMEG provided electrical engineering design, commissioning and peer review services for mechanical for the redevelopment of the historic Municipal Auditorium into a world-class cultural arts venue. Designed to achieve LEED Silver certification, the historic character of the building is being carefully preserved.

The Tobin Center is designed with a unique “flat floor” capability: the 1,759-seat H-E-B Performance Hall can quickly transform into multiple configurations for banquets, cabaret seating and special events. The 250-seat Studio Theater has equally flexible space and the 600-seat outdoor River Walk Plaza adds even more performance space while connecting to the world-renowned San Antonio Riverwalk.

It serves as the new home for the San Antonio Symphony, the San Antonio Opera, Ballet San Antonio and a wide variety of performing arts. It is considered to be the finest performance facility in the San Antonio area and a new magnet for downtown revitalization.

More than 25 years ago, we were involved in the complete restoration of the entire facility after the 1979 fire destroyed the historic structure. Keeping facade circa 1926 renovation of the 250,000-sf, two-story auditorium included a 5,000-seat auditorium, stage lighting, dimming and air conditioning systems. The renovation included approximately 160,000 CFM and 1,500 tons refrigeration. The lobby can be used for registration or small receptions. There are two rooms near the lobby that can be utilized as conference and meeting space, each approximately 1,900-sf and can seat 100 theater style. There is an additional 23,000-sf meeting and exhibit space that will seat 400 theater style.

Awards: 
Edwin F. Guth Lighting Design of Merit Awards for Historical Lighting and Event Lighting