558,000 ft2

Square footage


Total investment


Total savings


Playhouse Square is the largest performing arts district outside of New York City, comprised of five theaters with a total seating capacity of 10,000. As host to many major productions, these theaters depend on well-maintained, reliable, and effective HVAC systems. While the historic Allen Theatre was being renovated, the local chilled water provider retracted their agreement, a potentially disastrous complication. That’s where we came in.


Despite a lack of capital, Brewer-Garrett designed, delivered, and installed a custom solution in less than 12 weeks, which opened the door for a partnership that has evolved and deepened since its inception in 1994.

Equipment suited for every need
We responded by immediately designing and installing a new 600-ton chiller plant with distribution piping to serve the renovated theatre, Loews Office Building, and the Playhouse Square Offices.

Upgrading old systems
After the successful completion of that first project, we have implemented other significant infrastructure improvements to the Playhouse Square Center. The most recent project was the conversion from district steam utility to on-site steam generation. The on-site steam and hot water plants provide heating at the Bulkley Building, Hanna Building, and the Idea Center.

This program was designed to upgrade steam generation equipment, reduce operating costs, and add value to Playhouse Square properties.

Building Automation System Integration
Additionally, we have installed an automated system that will help Playhouse Square experience reduced redundancy and minimal downtime, while allowing the facility to schedule temperatures.


Energy use was reduced by 24.7%