STV has played a transformative role across Kutztown University’s campus for decades, delivering planning, design, and construction management for more than 60 projects. When the university set out to unify its visual arts programs, it turned once again to STV to design and deliver the new Sharadin Arts Building. The project combined a 55,400‑square‑foot addition with renovations to the existing 55,300‑square‑foot building to create a modern, collaborative home for fine arts, art education, crafts and communication design.
What challenges did STV address?
Kutztown University needed a centralized, purpose-built home for its growing visual arts programs, replacing a fragmented arrangement of studios and classrooms spread across campus. The project required significant expansion, major renovations and phased delivery to keep portions of the facility operational during construction. The building also needed to incorporate diverse art‑making environments – ranging from studios and fabrication spaces to galleries and lecture rooms – within a cohesive architectural vision.
What solutions did STV deliver?
STV provided full architectural, engineering, and interior design services for the new and renovated spaces, along with construction management oversight. The expanded building features specialized art teaching labs and studios designed for a range of media, a renovated lecture hall, a new art gallery, a prominent entrance and a public “piazza” that serves as a gathering space and gateway to campus. Through meticulous phasing and coordination, STV ensured the project remained on schedule while accommodating university operations.
How does this project benefit the Kutztown community?
The Sharadin Arts Building strengthens the university’s creative identity by uniting all visual arts programs under one roof, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and elevating student learning environments. The addition of public spaces – including a gallery and piazza – enhances campus life and increases community engagement. The project supports Kutztown’s long‑term growth and reinforces its commitment to high‑quality arts education.
Key stats and accolades
- 55,400‑sf addition and 55,300‑sf renovation
- Specialized studios and art teaching labs for multiple disciplines
- New art gallery, lecture hall and campus piazza
- Phased construction to maintain operations
