Common Ground

Common Ground Update | January 2024

In May 2022, PCM announced its $11M campus development project, Common Ground, for which we had secured $5.6M. Since then, we have continued to raise funds for the project and just reached the $9.81M mark. With the help of Architectural Resources Group and Morley Builders we secured our building permit on December 21, 2023.

During the permitting process, Morley Builders prepared the buildings and site for the launch of the project, including cordoning off active spaces from construction work. The project is now underway. Key construction phases are outlined below.

demolished building b from second story
demolished building b

Why are we building Common Ground? In this time when so much divides us, learning, performing, and enjoying music provides substantive opportunities to leave those divisions behind, to forge connections, to find common ground.

This project will transform our campus and enhance the learning experience for our students and the entire community. It encompasses the replacement of a single story building with a two-story learning center. It introduces an outdoor amphitheater and renovates our administrative wing to include new reception and waiting areas. Learn more about the project and watch a walkthrough of the plans on our campaign website.

campus map

Key construction phases and timeline

Phase 1 | January – April
Building A: demo interior of administrative wing
Building B: demo entire building, utility work, lay footings and foundation, steel framing

Phase 2 | May – August
Building A: structural retrofit, new wall framing, rough-in of mechanical/electrical/plumbing systems, interior finishes
Building B: more framing and walls, rough-in for plumbing/electrical/mechanical systems, roof, windows, lath and plaster

Phase 3 | September – March
Building A: remaining interior finishes (estimated completion: September)
Building B: interior walls, ceilings, utilities, doors, cabinetry, flooring, painting, etc., complete amphitheater

Pictures of demolition of beuilding b and admin wing

We look forward to sharing updates in our e-newsletter, Play On and welcome any questions you might have. If you would like more information, to schedule a hard hat tour, or are interested in supporting our efforts to build Common Ground, please contact Melissa Froehlich at 626-683-3355, ext. 107, or mfroehlich@pasadenaconservatory.org.

PCM is grateful to acknowledge the donors whose generous support has made it possible to pursue this project.

Supporters of Common Ground