Future of the Old Auditorium Adaptive Reuse Plan: Thief River Falls, MN

Abstract

This research project supports a community effort with the Pennington County Old Auditorium Committee and other partners in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, to develop a conceptual plan for the future of this existing historic building that can support local economic vitality, provide a multiuse community center and cultural destination of the region, and demonstrate sustainable community resilience within the local community. This project included: 1) case study research on similar buildings and projects, regionally, nationally, and internationally; 2) community meetings and an engagement workshop to gather community input; and 3) a set of architectural drawings documenting the project’s development and the final proposed design of the old auditorium. This project is also in support of the 2017 Thief River Fall Downtown Master Plan which provides recommendations on how to create a vibrant downtown to attract residents and visitors, enhance local economic vitality, and increase the public’s access to a variety of entertainment, recreation, and social activities