Interior renovations of the Canisius Fine Arts building take an aggressive yet delicate approach to the modifications of the fine arts center. Previously a residential facility affiliated with Hospice, the former Guilda House underwent frequent renovations and had lost most of the character defining elements throughout the four-story structure.
Selective demolition and careful removal of decades of modifications allowed for the rehabilitation of original elements to be revealed and highlighted as features that celebrate the historic character of the building. The original elements juxtaposed with modern finishes such as dynamic acoustical treatments, specialty lighting, and pivoting glass gallery walls provide a sensitive yet sophisticated backdrop for students to create unique pieces of art or rehearse with the instrument of their choice. Cloud-like acoustic treatments were included in the design to accommodate the performance requirements of the facility.
The new Guilda House provides Canisius High School with a Fine Arts facility, complete with a band room, individual music practice studios, a choral room, art gallery, ceramics studio and music and art classroom spaces.