David Rubenstein, CEO of The Carlyle Group, has agreed to donate half the costs of a $100 million addition to the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts aimed at adding much-needed rehearsal, education and public outreach space to the venue overlooking the Potomac River.
Rubenstein, also chairman of the center, announced the expansion project and his $50 million commitment to it in a news release Tuesday. In it, Rubenstein said the center has selected Steven Holl Architects to oversee the project.
“I am proud to announce the selection of acclaimed Steven Holl Architects for the Kennedy Center expansion project and look forward to working with one of the foremost architects of our time,” Rubenstein said. “Steven’s wonderful concept will create a strong visual presence that bolsters the Center’s prominence as the national cultural center, while maintaining its unique presence among Washington’s iconic landmarks.
This isn't Rubenstein's first major architectural announcement for a major East Coast city. Carlyle announced a prize winning architect for Riverside Center in New York. When it came to develop the first building, Carlyle's famed architect was nowhere to be found. Let's hope Steven Hoil remains on the job.
This incredible donation should add to Rubenstein's PEU Teflon status. The man is darned near indestructible. .
