Robinson Center Historic Renovation and Addition

The Robinson Center is Little Rock’s premier performing arts venue. Constructed in 1939, Robinson underwent a significant renovation and addition. The project aimed to modernize the building and add more event space while maintaining its iconic façade and prime location. Bernhard provided engineering design, commissioning, and energy modeling services for the project.

One challenge for the project was improving function and energy efficiency within the building’s historic footprint. Our design team used the architect’s 3D model to design the building’s mechanical systems to make sure equipment and systems would fit into complex spaces like the high ceilings of the ballroom. Using customized applications like triangular ductwork and concrete return air plenums, the design team delivered creative solutions to make the building systems work.

With the goal of achieving LEED certification, the energy model helped the design team to choose the appropriate systems and features for energy efficiency. At the same time, commissioning agents optimized the building’s controls and implemented advanced strategies to further save energy. In August 2017, the building achieved LEED Gold certification.