MASTROBUONO THEATER COURTYARD & CANOPY

The Victoria J. Mastrobuono Theater is located at the Mason Gross campus at Rutgers University. After analysis of the site, there were two concerns identified. The first is the complete absence of seating both in front of the theater, as well as the side, which can decrease not only the amount of gatherings for students at Mason Gross, but also the sense of liveliness and activity for the spaces in general. To elevate these spaces and create a better experience, a concept design was created for the Mastrobuono Theater that includes a courtyard and a canopy on the side of the theater. The intended vision for the design is to provide ample seating for students and performers, and to continue to foster a sense of community on campus.

The courtyard features a unique circular design with a Japanese maple in the center, as well as groundcover patches throughout the entrance to prevent weeds. The canopy features a series of wooden arches that can provide gatherings for warm afternoons and nights. Another feature added to the theater is an overhead pathway covered with hanging vines, which gives pedestrians an exciting walk to the entrance of the building.