Mecanoo and Marvel are proud to share that the Doris Duke Theatre at Jacob’s Pillow has been recognised with an Honour Award in the Cultural category of the AIANY Design Awards 2026. The awards celebrate architectural excellence across New York and beyond, recognising the collaborative work of architects, clients, and consultants.
Designed by Mecanoo as Lead Architect and Marvel as Architect of Record and Landscape, with Charcoalblue as Theatre and Acoustics Consultants, the new theatre builds on the legacy of the original Doris Duke Theatre, which was lost to fire in 2020. The design draws on the site’s rich heritage and Jacob’s Pillow’s diverse background to create an accessible, inclusive, and adaptable space for dialogue, collaboration, and education.
Theatre intimacy and warmth were central to the vision. The organically shaped lower volume takes inspiration from Indigenous design principles and creates a permeable, immersive environment that remains closely connected to the surrounding landscape. The result is a flexible and compact venue that supports a wide range of performance and creative activity, continuing Ted Shawn’s mission to foster, present, and preserve diverse forms of dance.
We would like to extend our congratulations to all 24 project teams recognised this year.