From Base Exchange to Center Stage: Tour The Joan

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The Joan and Irwin Jacobs Performing Arts Center reimagines Navy Building 178-once a base exchange, bowling alley, and "Hot Sounds" dance club-into a 40,000 sq. ft. performing arts hub in Liberty Station's Arts District.


Designed by obrARCHITECTURE, this adaptive reuse preserves historic fabric while discreetly integrating modern systems. Located under the airport's flight path, the project overcame extreme acoustic challenges to create pristine listening environments by carving out space beneath the foundation and sealing interiors.


Now home to the Cygnet Theatre, The Joan features a 300-seat mainstage, 125-seat studio, and rehearsal space, advancing Liberty Station as San Diego's leading regional arts destination.










Mode of Transportation: Bus

Learning Objectives

1. Analyze adaptive reuse strategies for transforming deteriorated historic buildings into modern performance facilities.
2. Examine acoustic engineering solutions for challenging site conditions, including layered wall assemblies, mechanical isolation techniques, and sound-lock vestibule systems.
3. Evaluate collaborative design processes between architects, theater operators, and community stakeholders to discover how multi-party partnerships can drive innovative solutions and secure project funding for cultural facilities.
4. Learn how to apply space-optimization techniques for dual-use cultural buildings, including excavation strategies for low-profile structures, transfer beam systems for column-free spaces, and flexible programming that serves both resident companies and community rental needs.

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