The Daryl and Steven Roth Wing
The cornerstone of the Hop renovation is a 15,000-square-foot new wing. Creating a central point of entry to the Hopkins Center, the wing features a state-of-the-art recital hall and performance lab, the Hop’s first dedicated dance studio, and an accessible, landscaped plaza —all spaces for gathering, experiencing, creating art.
The Plaza
The sculpted exterior plaza is designed as an inviting entry into the Hop, encouraging people to gather while also providing space for outdoor performances. Plants native to the Upper Valley sprout throughout the plaza whose grading intuitively articulates a connection to the Hop’s new central convening space: The Forum.
The Forum
With a glass façade, double-height ceilings and a generous grand stair, the Hop is welcoming, orienting core for the Hop that previously did not exist. With its openness and light, the Forum offers a warm and engaging space for people to gather as well as an additional place for performances and arts experiences. The spacious entry also significantly improves wayfinding to other parts of the building.
Jack 1953 and Mac 2011 Morris Recital Hall
This exceptional new space will set the scene for the creation and presentation of musical performances and immersive experiences with up to 130 guests. The hall features sculpted wood interior, versatile acoustics and spectacular views of the Dartmouth Green through double-height ceiling and curved window framing. With state-of-the-art technology, the hall will also support the recording and broadcasting of events and rehearsals to engage a broad range of audiences and collaborators off site.
Daryl Roth Studio Theater
The new space will be the Hop's creative heart and a versatile space for experimentation and new modes of performance. It features flexible seating, a sprung floor and the latest in sound, lighting, projection and broadcast technologies will allow for a range of interactions between performers and audiences. The exterior of the Lab features sculptural curved, precast concrete cladding that will draw the eye and create a lantern-like effect on the south side of the building at night.
Hodgson Family Dance Studio
The Hop finally has a rehearsal space dedicated exclusively to dance. Positioned on the lower level, directly beneath the Recital Hall, and partially below ground level, the space includes 20-foot ceilings and a glass ribbon of windows to draw in the daylight and connect with the exterior plaza. It also includes one of four sprung floors in the new building. Mirrored walls support the dancers and reflect the light, while enhancing the sense of openness within the space. The studio is adjoined by a suite of changing rooms to support the growing demand for dance classes.
Spaulding Auditorium
The beloved 900-seat theater has been modernized and outfitted with improved accoustics, upgraded seating, an
accessible stage, a green room and new technical facilities. Seating will also be upgraded to improve accessibility.
Top of the Hop
The Top of the Hop received a vital design refresh, uplifting its function as a social hub. It has spaces to work, a bar and technology to support informal performances. It is now equipped with sound isolation so that it can be used concurrently with other spaces for social events and public talks.
Design Vision
Our aim is to continue the pioneering energy that the Hop embodied at its founding. As the arts at Dartmouth grow, this design will meet the increasing needs for access and capabilities and provide inspirational environments that reinvigorate creative dialogue. We're lucky to be able to work with a compelling existing building and look forward to breakthroughs in arts expression that open us up to new ideas and to one another. Nick Anderson, Director, Senior Architect, Snøhetta