The new Asian American Resource Center (AARC) Performing Arts and Cultural Center will create a space of belonging and healing for the Pan-Asian community. The building celebrates various cultures and histories by creating a sense of solidarity by recognizing the Pan-Asian interconnectedness in combination with local Texas influences.

Designed for arts and culture while providing space for healing and unity, the building facilitates connections through shared narratives where diverse cultures can converge, build relationships, and create collaboratively. Programmatic possibilities for the Pan-Asian community in Austin are expanded through a highly flexible and adaptable 350-seat performance theater, a black box theater, and an art gallery that defies experiential expectations and empowers the local community to explore artistic risk while embracing traditional cultural performances and activities.

The design brings people together through three volumes that create a home for cultural celebration, blurring the boundary between interior and exterior space. The new public plaza at the heart of campus provides a democratic outdoor space for congregation and performance where all are welcome.

The design of the building highlights a commitment to social and environmental sustainability by improving the community’s well-being and making life more enjoyable. The building is enveloped by an energy-efficient triple-glazed facade that opens the interior spaces to the surrounding landscape, creating a highly transparent connection between interior and exterior spaces. The AARC building is targeting LEED silver minimum.