Aronoff Center

César Pelli · Cincinnati · 1995

Aronoff Center
Hidden Gem

An 'invisible' bridge of art that stretches across a forest valley, immersed in nature.

Performing arts center in Cincinnati, Ohio, United States.

Major PracticeHidden Gem
Architect
César Pelli
Year
1995
Coordinates
39.1036°, -84.5118°
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Visitor Guide

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Visitor Tip

Walk the path to the Creative Hall; the building is designed to be barely visible through the dense woodland.

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Best Photo Spot

The circular open-air stage, where Ando’s concrete geometry is perfectly centered within the surrounding trees.

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Access & Hours

Open 10am–6pm (closed Mondays). The grounds and artist-in-residence exhibitions are often free.

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Insider Note

The Residential Hall is shaped like a bridge stretched across a valley, allowing nature to flow uninterrupted beneath the building.

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Time Needed

1-2 hours

Design & Structure

Shell StructureFreeformMinimal Surface
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Computational Process

Ando aimed for 'invisible architecture,' using pure geometric forms that stand out against the natural forest without artificiality.

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Materiality

Raw concrete, steel pergolas, and timber formwork that leaves a natural patina on the surface.

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Structural Innovation

The design includes a circular plan hollowed out for an amphitheater and two parallelepipedons with converging axes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who designed Aronoff Center?+

Aronoff Center was designed by César Pelli and completed in 1995. It is located in Cincinnati, United States.

Where is Aronoff Center located?+

Aronoff Center is located in Cincinnati, United States. Its coordinates are 39.1036°, -84.5118°.

When was Aronoff Center built?+

Aronoff Center was completed in 1995. It was designed by César Pelli.

Can I visit Aronoff Center?+

Aronoff Center is a real building in Cincinnati that can be viewed from the outside. Check local information for interior access and visiting hours. Use the Parametric Atlas walking tour feature to plan a route that includes this building.