Stevens Construction says it has started construction of a new, two-story complex for BIG ARTS in Sanibel.
The project has an estimated overall budget of about $14 million including $1.5 million for design, permitting and insurance and $2.5 million for contingencies.
The contractor is is providing construction management services for a new 27,000-sq.-fr. structure which will house a 3,800-sq.-ft, performing arts center with 414-seat theater at 900 Dunlop Rd., said Stevens president Mark Stevens. The first floor will also feature a spacious lobby, green room, box office, gift shop, catering kitchen, dressing rooms with showers and an expanded art gallery.
An education center will be situated on the second floor to host lectures as well as painting, drawing, photography, music, dance and pottery workshops and classes. The second floor will also include an administrative department with conference rooms and offices.
BIG ARTS will feature an impact-resistant, reflective glass façade at the front of the building which overlooks an outdoor veranda while reducing the building’s heat load. A broadened driveway for guest drop-off, landscaped walkways and ample parking will provide convenience for guests.
Stevens Construction says it is is constructing the building with energy efficient elements such as a metal roof to reflect heat, chilled water heating and cooling system to provide energy efficient climate control, spray foam insulation to provide a thermal barrier from the exterior to interior and LED lighting.
The contractor demolished the existing approximate 18,000-sq. ft. structure which housed the auditorium, gallery and offices within four days.
Slated for completion in January of 2020, Stevens has been providing pre-construction services for the past year providing recommendations and constructability reviews to ensure that the project could be achieved within their budget and tight schedule.
The Stevens Construction team includes Mike Waskiewicz, project manager; Jim Ruby, superintendent; Tate Hernly, project engineer and Sue Ziegenfus, project administrator. The project was designed by Amy Nowacki Architect, LLC.