9th September 2020
The Covid-19 pandemic has struck at the heart of what Sound Space Vision do, which is to envision gathering spaces for all activities especially the performing arts. However the virus has not undermined why we do what we do, which is to bring performers and audiences together in a transformative environment.
This year, it won three Royal Institute of British Architects awards and it’s easy to see – and hear – why. Seating is comfortable, sightlines clear and the acoustics are superb, every scintillating note from the relatively large pit fired into the auditorium with pinpoint accuracy.
The inside of the hall is a beautiful balance of function, sustainability, acoustic performance and expression of materials. Here is an example of the very best in British architectural design, offering ideas, skill and care in ways that transform the human use and experience of the building at every opportunity.
The two main auditoria have been brought up to date, with new heating and ventilation, additional stage infrastructure and retractable acoustic blinds in the concert hall for amplified music, while the Ashcroft theatre has been expanded by 50 seats, hitting the 800-seat sweet spot to attract more touring productions.
One of the World’s 100 Greatest Places of 2019
When you leave here you will play in all sorts of halls, but very few will be as good as Koerner Hall.
Anne Minors Performance Consultants was responsible for the auditorium theatre consulting, and Sound Space Design was responsible for acoustics design, both working in close collaboration. The two companies led by principals Anne Minors and Robert Essert, were immensely helpful and flexible, respectful of the financial challenges and cultural priorities. They were always available and attentive to our challenging project.
We have been delighted with our experience of working with Anne Minors and her team. She has a very collaborative approach to working with clients and took care to be sure that she understood our requirements ‘from the inside.’
