The River Run Centre is located on an irregularly-shaped stretch of land that was formerly a rail yard and the site of Guelph's very first building erected in 1827. A severe constraint of the site is the floodplain which extends a considerable distance beyond the water's edge. The design strategy for the new building was to engage it in a dialogue with the river and nearby Allan's Bridge which leads to the downtown. For residents on the opposite shore and motorists crossing the bridge, the reception hall suggests a community living room enlivened by a flow of people up and down the staircase to the musicians' gallery and balcony seating. Inside the main theatre, a feeling of intimacy reinforces the sense of community that is so important to the experience of attending live performances.
Purple upholstery lends an air of richness and luxury.
The limited budget of this community theatre called for an approach that would rely upon well-tested, reliable methods and be economical to operate in terms of time and labour. The River Run Centre was designed to accommodate a wide range of attractions including theatrical performances, touring shows, and the annual Guelph Spring Festival which presents the finest in classical vocal and instrumental music from around the world. The stage has a moveable orchestra pit that can be raised to form a stage apron. The proscenium opening is large so that, during concerts, the audience and musicians can occupy the same aural space. Changes can be made from concert or recital mode to proscenium mode quickly and easily by adjusting the acoustical curtains at the sides and top.