The Mondavi Center for the Arts is one of the showcase features of the University of California, Davis campus, serving as a landmark for the university, as it is visible from the freeway. This unique structure is instantly recognizable by the exterior cladding of sandstone panels, imported from India. The building includes an 1800 seat main theater, as well as smaller, 650 seat studio theater for more intimate performances.

The close proximity of railroad tracks presented challenges, since the design had to include full acoustic isolation, as well as protect the performance space from vibrations induced by passing trains. Interior features include specialized features which allow the space to be easily manipulated to allow optimum acoustical output, whether it is from large orchestral groups or smaller ensembles.

Size:     
106,000 square feet

Construction Cost:   
$46 million

Completed:    
2002