Architectural and Engineering Services - Water Infiltration Controls

The VMA was designed by Taliesin Associated Architects of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation in 1967. It was completed in 1971. The main theatre building is generally circular in plan with a domed roof and has a rectangular tower comprising the stage area. The ground floor consists of the main auditorium, stage, and exhibition area, with rounded rooms flanking each side of the auditorium. At the control room level is the projection room and ceilings. There is a lower level below the stage called the lift pit and trap room. The main area of the building has a large domed roof, and the stage area is at a higher elevation and has a flat roof. The structure has concrete slabs on grade with grade beams and with concrete and CMU walls.

The overall site has various driveways, hardscape, drains, lawns, raised planters, shrubbery, and trees. The site also is close to the bay and creeks, and it is reported by the County staff that below-grade water intrusion occurs at a greater frequency depending on the position of the tides in the area. Water infiltration is noted at the backstage to orchestra pit staircases, orchestra pit, mechanical rooms, lowest elevation of auditorium public ramps to front row seats, grade level offices, green room garden area exhibiting sinking grade sidewalks and windows, east lobby and connecting elevations to the seating exhibited by hollow vibration when impacting the floor and in the railing and seating within the auditorium. A series of new landscape walls and ADA parking was added to the exterior of the structure which should be considered in the investigation. Grade drainage in some areas is directed to the loading dock which cannot, as currently designed, remove rainwater in a timely fashion and requires supplemental pumps to remove water.

The designer will develop an assessment process to identify sources of water infiltration as part of this project. This information will provide a solution for controlling water infiltration at the facility.

Notice to Bidders [PDF]

Marin Veterans' Memorial Auditorium Report [PDF]

VMA Post Water Intrusion Event Memo [PDF]

County of Marin PSC template [PDF]