The AAC had been given the site by the government in the years immediately following independence but had generally staged its performances outdoors.

In the following year, a 450-seat theatre in hexagonal form was added to the existing auditorium and, in 1992, an octagonal 250-seat facility for lectures and recitals was completed.

The buildings are placed in a manner that creates semi-enclosed courtyards and the various polygonal shapes in their design are intended to enhance acoustics when used for performances.

[3] The structures are influenced by Mughal architecture and are constructed using a veneer of handmade red bricks overlaying a concrete form.

The bricks are bonded with a local mortar and reflect the construction of the historic Lahore Fort and Badshahi Mosque, as well as the red sandstone that was favoured by the Mughals.