KdG worked with local artists and the Arts Center Board to develop the program and design features of the space for the renovation of a building that sat vacant for years in downtown St. Charles. KdG transformed a 1940’s train car factory into a community Arts Center. The former manufacturing building is located near the historic district in St. Charles, just steps away from the City’s riverfront park in a revitalized industrial area. The project’s 36,000 sq. ft. includes 5,000 sq. ft. of exhibition space of the caliber to host national exhibitions, including the opening exhibition from the Smithsonian. A stage in the Grand Hall provides space for performances and community concerts. Studios for artists are located on the mezzanine level of the building, with open glass fronts to allow visitors to see artists at work and allow the visitors to interact with the artists. The project also includes multi-purpose rooms, administration offices, kitchen, and a Children’s Experience Gallery.