A project spearheaded by JRM Construction Management provided a comprehensive update of more than 46,000 square feet of education, community programming and support space at Count Basie Center for the Arts at 99 Monmouth St. in Red Bank. — Courtesy: JRM
By Joshua Burd
JRM Construction Management has completed a more than 46,000-square-foot renovation of the Count Basie Center for the Arts, a century-old landmark in the heart of Red Bank.
According to the firm, the sweeping project modernized the historic venue while preserving its architectural character and expanding spaces dedicated to education, administration and community programming. That includes a range of new functional areas built to support the center’s growing role as a performing arts destination, education space and a cultural hub, while the lower level was transformed into new dance and classroom studios with wood floors, full-height mirrors, faux skylights and enhanced soundproofing to support instruction and rehearsals.
On the first floor, JRM built a new box office and reception area defined by specialty ceilings, custom windows and a custom curved staircase that serves as a visual focal point, according to a news release. The second floor was reconfigured to include new offices and conference rooms outfitted with Teknion glass partitions, ADA-compliant restrooms and open work areas to modernize the space, while the firm created new offices and collaborative workspaces on the third floor to provide staff with a flexible environment.
“Working within a historic and active venue like the Count Basie Center for the Arts requires careful coordination and respect for the building’s legacy,” said Antonina Caruso, vice president of business development at JRM. “Our team was proud to modernize the infrastructure and create new spaces that support the center’s mission while preserving the character that makes this theater so important to the community.”
The project also included extensive MEP system replacements and exterior restoration work, including repointing and waterproofing the theater’s historic brick chimney, the news release said. JRM said it carefully coordinated all construction activities while the venue remained fully operational, with temporary acoustic protection measures implemented to ensure that performances and events continued uninterrupted.
“JRM was an outstanding partner in helping us prepare for our next century,” said Adam Philipson, CEO and president and of the Count Basie Center for the Arts. “As we celebrate our centennial, we’re also focused on the future. JRM’s work preserved the history of this remarkable building while building the spaces and infrastructure needed to support generations of artists, students, audiences and community members to come. We are grateful to JRM for bringing our vision to life.”
