Transforming Baltimore’s historic Mercantile Trust & Deposit Co. building into the Chesapeake Shakespeare Theater required more than a thoughtful renovation. The project demanded creative preconstruction solutions that balanced historic preservation, constructability, and budget while reimagining an 1885 landmark as a modern performing arts venue.

Southway joined the project team early to provide constructability guidance and cost-saving solutions throughout design, helping preserve key architectural features while reducing impacts to the historic structure. From developing a more efficient structural approach for the new balcony to minimizing penetrations through three-foot-thick masonry walls, every decision was made to maximize value without compromising the theater’s vision. The completed venue features a 250-seat modern globe theater with three levels of audience seating surrounding a thrust stage, seamlessly blending historic architecture with a world-class performance environment.

Awards:
ABC Baltimore Award of Excellence (2015)
Baltimore Architecture Foundation Golden Griffin Award (2014)
Baltimore Heritage Adaptive Reuse Award (2015)
Preservation Maryland Phoenix Award (2014)