How do you preserve the past while designing for the future?
For generations, the Dixie Center for the Arts has been a cultural landmark in downtown Ruston.
Maintaining its relevance required more than repairs.
The challenge was to envision how this historic landmark could continue serving the community while supporting new programming, expanded opportunities, and long-term economic vitality.
The Challenge
Create a destination that honors the Dixie's history while preparing it for the future.
Reimagine its role as a cultural, educational, and community gathering place.
The Vision
Working alongside the building committee, board members, and community leaders, we explored opportunities to preserve the theater's historic character while introducing new spaces and experiences that support future growth.
My role was to help transform that vision into a compelling story through architectural concepts, renderings, strategic planning, and presentation materials that supported fundraising and the Capital Outlay process.
The Approach
The result was more than a design proposal.
It became a shared vision that could be communicated to stakeholders, city leaders, donors, and the public.
More importantly, it helped build momentum toward transforming one of Ruston's most treasured landmarks.
The Impact
Capital Outlay proposal developed to communicate the vision and support future funding.
Location
Ruston, Louisiana
Project Status
Capital Outlay Proposal | August 2026
Client
Dixie Center for the Arts
Firm
Marla Emory Design Co.
My Role
Project Leadership • Architectural Concepts • Strategic Planning • Renderings • Proposal Production
Executive Director
Judy Bauldree
Financial Planning
John Cole
Collaborators
Dixie Building Committee
Project Credits