Page 29 - School Planning & Management, October 2017

Curtains up. Modeled on a Hollywood studio, the Tahoe Arts & Design Academy (TADA), in South Lake Tahoe Calif., included the reconstruction of an existing 15,000-square-foot performing arts facility and new construction of a 10,000-square-foot production facility addition. TADA features a 300-seat theater, Foley sound stage, tiered orchestra room, green screen studio and state-of-the-art editing suites. In terms of the overall design, the architects worked to preserve the existing structure by choosing a tension grid—to provide full access to the catwalk space — and display the original exposed beams, as opposed to a dropped acoustical baffled ceiling.
Accessibility compliance standards have evolved to support wheelchair lifts, ramps and elevators providing equal access to the stage and multiple locations for seating. Strike a balance between adhering to these requirements, while maintaining the capac- ity for seating. Understand any code changes related to aisle and row width, exiting, and fire and life safety, so that you accommodate these changes without completely altering the number of seats available for guests.
Be Mindful of Sight Lines
One of the most important parts of the guest experience is being able to easily see the stage. Maintaining sight lines — provid- ing unobstructed views of the stage from wherever a guest is seated — is a challeng- ing but necessary step in the design process. When working on an existing facility, it’s important to take existing and necessary structural elements into account. Identify where those structural elements are in the space and adjust accordingly.
As designers, it’s exciting to have seen
a shift in prioritizing performing arts centers. A renovated facility can bring new life to performance spaces while providing professional opportunities and experiences for all students on campus. SPM
>> Emily Koch is a project designer and Kristen van Elden, CID, LEED-AP, ID+C, is a design coor- dinator in the interior design studio at LPA Inc., an integrated design firm in California and Texas.
and seismic upgrades that may involve
replacement of ceilings and walls.
• Electrical engineers consider how to impact acoustics through sound and
lighting control locations, fire alarms, paging/intercom systems and connect motorized curtains or sound absorbent panels to create a space better suited to drama or lecture presentations.
At Wilson High School, also in Long Beach, the need to seismically retrofit
the theater meant all disciplines needed
to come together: structural engineering designed the roof and ceiling support, the architectural and interior designers worked
with the acoustician to reshape the ceiling below the new supports, and worked with mechanical and electrical to weave the duc- twork, diffusers, and lighting throughout.
Recognize the Building’s Inherent Characteristics
Today’s requirements for a theater are much more complex than theaters past. From lighting to seating, acoustics to accessibility, balancing the needs of today with important historical elements can set a performing arts center apart. From his- torical architectural features to interesting seating arrangements, keep an eye out for elements that exist within a building before demolishing a key component. Don’t elimi- nate the eccentricities; instead balance them with the needs of modern theater.
Identify the Function of the Space
Some schools may offer the space to
the entire community, while others have
a smaller facility that is specific to one ex- tracurricular program. By understanding how the space will be used, and by whom, it’s easier to sift through the wide variety of options for acoustical, lighting and A/V.
Upgrade for Accessibility
Connecting spaces with multiple levels in older buildings can be challenging.
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