History & Future
About the Building
Nestled in the heart of Viroqua, Wisconsin, Arkadia—formerly known as The Ark and later The Commons—has long served as a sanctuary for creativity, learning, and cultural connection in the Driftless region. Originally constructed in 1897 as a Congregational church, the building was designed by the architectural firm Stoltze & Schick and stood as one of the most prominent structures in Vernon County, defined by its soaring spire and luminous stained glass.
In 2012, through a generous act of local philanthropy, the building was acquired and reactivated as a community cultural center. What followed was a remarkable year of volunteer-led transformation. The space quickly came to life with performances, exhibitions, classes, and gatherings, establishing itself as a vital hub for interdisciplinary arts and education. Over the years, Arkadia has hosted a wide range of programming and partnerships, serving thousands of people across the region and supporting organizations dedicated to the enrichment of cultural, educational, and community life.
Today, the building stands as both a testament to what has already been accomplished and a clear invitation toward what is next.
Where We Are Now
After more than a decade of continuous use, stewardship, and incremental improvement, we are now preparing for a comprehensive renovation that will bring Arkadia fully into alignment with its long-term potential. This next phase is focused on transforming the building into a fully accessible, professionally equipped, and sustainably designed center for arts and learning that can serve the region for generations to come.
As part of this effort, Arkadia has been selected as one of only ten projects statewide to participate in the Thrive Rural Wisconsin program. This initiative, led by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation in partnership with USDA Rural Development, provides technical assistance and strategic support to rural projects with strong potential for economic and community impact. Arkadia is the only private-sector project included in this cohort, reflecting both the strength of the vision and the depth of community alignment behind it.
This partnership marks a significant step forward. It connects our project to state and federal development resources, and it positions Arkadia within a broader network of rural revitalization efforts across Wisconsin.
The Pre-Design Study
The immediate focus of our work is the completion of a professional architectural and engineering pre-design study. This is the foundational step that makes the entire renovation possible.
The pre-design study is a comprehensive process led by our architectural and engineering team that will:
Assess the current condition of the building and its site, including structural systems, infrastructure, code compliance, accessibility requirements and historical considerations
Develop space planning concepts based on a thorough needs assessment of our partners and community
Establish sustainability and environmental performance targets
Provide preliminary estimate of cost and phased renovation scenarios
This work results in a clear, actionable roadmap for the future of Arkadia and its partners in providing services and programming to the Viroqua community and the broader region. It allows us to move forward with confidence, aligning design, funding, and construction in a way that is both responsible and achievable .
Just as importantly, it unlocks access to the major funding sources required to complete the project, including state and federal grants, philanthropic investment, and the choice of whether to pursue historic preservation tax credits. Without this step, the project cannot advance beyond vision.
Supporting the Next Phase
We are currently raising funds to complete this pre-design study and initiate the full renovation process. This is a critical moment.
Arkadia has already demonstrated what this space can be through community effort, creativity, and care. With your support, we can now take the next step, preserving this historic structure while transforming it into a fully realized center for arts, education, and cultural life in the Driftless region.
Your contribution supports the architectural and engineering work that will define the future of Arkadia. It enables the creation of a detailed plan, establishes the foundation for major funding, and advances the transformation of this historic building into a fully realized center for arts and education in the Driftless region.
Every gift contributes directly to this effort and moves the project forward.
Make a contribution below to support the Arkadia pre-design study and help bring this next chapter into form.
