The Nova Arts space in Keene is a flexible mixed-use project in an older warehouse building in downtown Keene, New Hampshire. The client had been a tenant in the building for some time, operating the local Terra Nova Coffee Roastery. They were hosting small bands in their storage garage at the back of the building, which were becoming popular, and requiring more space.

This project includes a multi-phase design in which the completed initial phase is the redesign of the first floor to include a flexible café space with a performance stage. There are also retail areas dedicated to symbiotic tenants such as Brewbakers Café, Keene Vinyl and Billies + Tillie, as well as support spaces such as a commercial kitchen and accessible gender-neutral toilet facilities. The second floor will incorporate artists’ studios, exhibit spaces and a roof garden over the rear of the first floor. Nova Arts Block is a collaborative arts initiative focused on emerging artists, underrepresented voices, and unexpected juxtapositions.

The design of the space sets the stage for a variety of events, including café space, performance space, and workshop space. The design included consideration for site and building accessibility, a stage, retail, and café space. The electrical and mechanical systems were completely reworked to meet code and provide safe levels of ventilation for reduced occupancy during the pandemic.