Knauer Performing Arts Center

As the centerpiece of the Arts Scene in West Chester, the Knauer Performing Arts Center now thrives in the former home of a Pennsylvania National Guard unit.

“We chose Bancroft Construction to lead this effort and, quite simply, they got it right. ”
Gary R. Green
Former President
Uptown! Entertainment Alliance

Project Stats

  • Owner
    Uptown! Entertainment Alliace
  • Location
    West Chester, PA
  • Project Type
    CMc
  • Design Professional
    Homsey Architects
  • Market
    Cultural
  • Square Footage
    10,900

The repurposing of the West Chester National Guard Armory will convert the 10,900 square foot space into a 300-seat auditorium for live and screen performances. In addition to the interior changes, the building will be upgraded to meet ADA standards, the exterior of the building will be restored and the parking lot will be resurfaced. The armory, which has sat vacant since 2013, was built in 1916 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It formerly served as the home to the Pennsylvania National Guard unit which included 170 troops of Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 111th Infantry and 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team. UEA launched a three-year long capital campaign to raise $3.75 million needed for the project’s completion.

Awards

  • Pennsylvania Historic Preservation Public Impact Award
  • 2021 Commonwealth Award – 10,000 Friends of Pennsylvania
  • West Chester Downtown Foundation Bricks & Mortar Award
  • Preservation Alliance of Greater Philadelphia Grand Jury Award

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