St. Joseph’s Catholic School, Performing Arts Center

To support its growing student body, St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Greenville, SC renovated a 6,000 SF performing arts center and chapel. As part of a larger campus transformation that began when the school purchased an abandoned manufacturing plant in 1988, this project marks a significant milestone in the school’s continued investment in meaningful learning and worship spaces.

A Modern Theater and Chapel Designed for Arts, Faith and Events

McMillan Pazdan Smith provided planning and design services to assess the feasibility and budget for upgrading the existing structure. The interior renovation involved major structural and mechanical updates, as well as aesthetic improvements to lighting, finishes, and furnishings. The new design expands seating capacity with the addition of a balcony and enhances visibility by removing interior columns.

The renovated performing arts center and chapel serve multiple campus needs, combining faith, arts, and gathering functions in a single location. The facility also includes a black box theater, lobby, and administrative offices to support daily operations.

Adding a symbolic element to the space, a local blacksmith crafted custom metal Stations of the Cross. It reinforces St. Joseph’s Catholic School’s Catholic identity and the thoughtful integration of art and faith. 

Learn about the benefits of incorporating the arts into K-12 education more examples of performing arts center design.