ORU Media Arts Center

Oral Roberts University Unveils $33M Peggy V. Helmerich Media Arts Center in Tulsa: A Modern Hub for Arts and Education

Tulsa, OK

The Peggy V. Helmerich Media Arts Center, a $33 million, 73,400 SF facility on the campus of Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, seamlessly integrates education with the arts, housing ORU’s theatre, dance, music, and digital media departments.

Center for the Arts

This center features a 450-seat proscenium arched auditorium, a 144-seat music performance hall, and a 100-seat black box theater. These performance spaces serve dual functions as educational venues and also include faculty offices and student support spaces.

Crossland’s pre-construction efforts were pivotal on this project, with over $5 million in value engineering that was a cost savings to the client and ensured the project’s timely commencement and completion slated for Fall 2024.

The building is designed to impress both functionally and aesthetically, aimed at leaving students and visitors in awe. Its striking exterior combines black aluminum with a blue Pacifica glass curtain wall along the entire west facade.

Intricate Design

Inside, the center continues to impress with high-end finishes like Koroseal Arbor Wood Veneer wall coverings in the gallery and performance areas and specialty-designed flooring suitable for each type of performance space. Advanced audio/visual installations include rough-in wiring and equipment throughout, a motorized video wall, rigging for stage curtains and lighting, and a catwalk over the auditorium. Recording studios feature sound-rated sliding glass doors, and the Scene Shop includes state-of-the-art machinery and a built-in dust collector.

Design Challenges

The audio/visual system presented a challenge as it was not fully designed at the outset. The AV subcontractor’s role expanded to become a consultant for ORU, facilitating the swift finalization and installation of the AV system, including expedited ordering of long lead materials.

Coordination of multiple last-installed finishes in a single room required meticulous scheduling and protection strategies. The project team also adeptly responded to ongoing revisions from the owner, efficiently sourcing alternative materials to meet tight deadlines.

Despite challenges from subcontractor delays, conflicting material specifications from architects/engineers, and last-minute changes from multiple owners, the project team’s dedication and problem-solving ensured the creation of a remarkable facility.

Final Outcome

The result is a stunning new facility at ORU that not only meets but enhances the educational and cultural experiences of students, faculty, and visitors alike that was delivered on time and within budget.

Project Facts

Industry Sector: Educational
Cost: 35,000,000
Size: 78,000 SF
Delivery Method: Construction Management
Self-Perform: Steel Erection
Owner: Oral Roberts University
Architect: KSQ Design