About University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman Quadrangle

Perelman Quadrangle includes several historically significant buildings, including the distinctive red brick of Irvine Auditorium and the classic look of Houston Hall, the oldest student union in the country. Over the summer, the Perelman Quadrangle has undergone extensive renovations to preserve the original features of Houston Hall and Penn Commons – the open, outdoor area between College Hall and Houston Hall that has become a popular event space.

“Over my forty years here at the University of Pennsylvania, I’ve seen many changes to the event spaces, each to restore the building’s historical charm and add key technical features,” said Thomas Hauber, Executive Director of the Perelman Quadrangle. “The construction that took place this summer expands on the changes that have already been made, making it more accessible for technology and activities to take place on campus in Houston Hall’s Marketplace.”

When booking a space at the Perelman Quadrangle, catering and audio-visual are available through University partners Bon Appétit Catering and Visual Sound. “Whether you need a unique and customized menu or state-of-the-art technology, they are fully equipped to make it happen,” said Hauber.

Houston Market—Renovations to Houston Market will enable Penn Dining to offer extensive food options with improved efficiency while preserving the history and aesthetics of Houston Hall. The Market will serve everything from sushi at Zen Station to wood-fired pizza at Pi and Philly favorites at the Street Cart Café.

Houston Hall—Built in 1896, Houston Hall remains the center of campus life, an engaging space where students, faculty, alumni, and guests gather. A multimillion-dollar renovation in 2000 restored the building to its 19th-century charm while updating the facilities to meet the needs of the 21st century.

Houston Hall features fourteen rooms and facilities, in addition to Perelman Quadrangle’s Irvine Auditorium, the ARCH, Iron Gate Theater, and a central pool of classrooms. The variety of spaces proves to be a selling point for conferences, symposiums, general business meetings, bat/bar mitzvahs, weddings, and so much more.

Irvine Auditorium - Set at the corner of Spruce and 34th Street and adorned with dramatic gargoyles, Irvine Auditorium is one of the renowned architectural features on the University’s campus, if not for the entire city of Philadelphia. Irvine was completed in 1932 and designed by acclaimed Philadelphia architect Horace Trumbauer. The impressive interior murals depict the philosophical history of the University. The Main Hall boasts a seating capacity of 1,259, which is desirable for lectures, keynotes, orchestral performances, comedy shows, concerts, and more. The historic building is also home to the famous Curtis Organ, the 11th largest pipe organ in the world.

Penn Commons & College Green—These two beautiful outdoor spaces are also managed through the Perelman Quadrangle. Penn Commons, at the heart of campus, offers ample room for large events, cocktail hours, team building, or meet-and-greets and can host a tented option for up to 600. College Green, a distinguished location, features eclectic art, brick pathways, and rolling green hills—perfect for festivals, weddings, and outdoor occasions.

The Iron Gate Theatre is registered as a national historical landmark. It features large rehearsal rooms and adjacent dressing areas ideal for dance or theater groups, meetings, and retreats.

The ARCH—an acronym for the Arts, Research, and Culture House—is also managed by the Perelman Quadrangle. Built in 1927, it underwent extensive renovations, which were completed in 2014. The late-gothic revival venue boasts four meeting rooms, an auditorium, a rehearsal room, a café, and a beautiful lobby space.

“With comprehensive event spaces in five diverse buildings on campus and outdoor event spaces, we can accommodate unparalleled experiences for every client. We strive to ensure guests will have a memorable time at our event facilities and share their positive feedback with colleagues, members of related organizations, friends, and family,” said Britny Molloy, Event Sales Coordinator. “Our team goes the extra mile to ensure each event is unique, memorable, and worth recommending!”

The award-winning Perelman Quadrangle is home to some of the most notable events that will take place in the city of Philadelphia. The Free Library of Philadelphia recently hosted a speaking engagement at the Irvine Auditorium featuring former President Bill Clinton and author James Patterson. Former Vice President Joe Biden also frequents the auditorium, and musicians Bono, Elton John, and The Red Hot Chili Peppers have also graced the Main Hall’s stage.