Forums >> Community >> Newbies >> Help required regarding Cinema design / theater design

cindywright

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Joined: Fri, Mar 16, 2007
5 Posts

Hi,

I'm redesigning a south african cinema as part of my dissertaion for my interior design degree. I've had a look at THX website but I still dont know how high speakers should be mounted, where to place acoustic panels and how to design baffel walls etc.

I'm also designing a mini theater by converting two of the existing smaller cinema auditoriums in to one large room. Whats the minimum depth the stage can be? Must I have change rooms, green room etc? What kind of lighting and other equipment do I need to include?

What kind of materials should be used on the walls and can I create an interesting ceiling without compromising acoustics? Is a theater design considerations the same as for a cinema? What are designers doing to enhance the cinema environment? How do I go about specifying the correct equipment?

Can anybody assist me  in the design of the auditorium and designing a theater with a stage for live bands and comedy nights.

Thanks

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WWHub

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Joined: Tue, May 16, 2006
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KingRevit

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Joined: Mon, Oct 15, 2007
321 Posts

i would suggest you choose another project for you dissertation. due to all the technical items that have to be considered before design if your space is small then you will most likely end up with a design that looks the same as all the other cinemas you have been in. the reason they are all the same is because thats what works best. also interiors of cinemas don't look good inside revit as i have just finished one. although revit is great for this type of project (for all the tec drawings) as a student i guess at the end you want a project that has visulally stunning 3d renerings- you will not get this from a cinema. the usual applies - you have to know the rules before you can break them. i would seriously consider doing doing something else that will show your creative ability more. if you are allowed do a building from scratch rather than a referb, its more impressive and alos easier.

good luck with your project what ever yopu decide.

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coreed

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Joined: Fri, Feb 10, 2006
1874 Posts

this sounds like all basic stuff that you can answer during your research phase. check out the theatre stuff in Architectural Record. they normally have side bars that get into the nuts and bolts of stuff.

HTH

-----------------------------------

best regards,

coreed,aia

bmpArchitects,Inc.

"Revit has to be implemented, Not installed." 

Long Live Revit

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geofm

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Joined: Sat, Nov 11, 2006
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hello cindy,

get a copy of your local building code. it will have rules regarding proscenium walls separating stage from audience seating, egress , fire safety , areas per person etc

also rules about facilities required for toilets , m, f and handicapped access.

in australia an upgrade to an existing older building usually means complying with current building rules. 

translated that means mega $$$ 

cheers

geoff 

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cindywright

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Joined: Fri, Mar 16, 2007
5 Posts

Thank you to everyone who has shared their wisdom... I'm begining to wish I could change my topic but alas, it's too late in the year and my proposal has already been accepted. The project is conceptual but I also have to pass the technical side...no matter how daunting it might be.

I've had a look at THX website, done searches on sound insulation construction techniques...most of it says I have to use several layers of drywall and MDF with foam or fiberglass insulation. I've found out that I may have a problem with flanking when it comes to sound transmission.

 What, besides the thin carpeting that I've noticed already installed on these walls, can I use? Do the auditoriums have to be carpeted entirely from floor to ceiling? How do I know where to install acoustic panels and is using basic, padded MDF sufficient, or are there special acoustic panels that should be used?

I have consulted with our building regulation documents...obtained from the public works website. Would you believe that it gives no guidelines regarding cinemas? But the American and UK building guidelines give widths of gangways, seatways and how many seats are allowed in a row according to the number of people? Maybe I'm not looking in the right place...

Does anybody know who designs cinemas in South Africa? Maybe somebody can give me a cinema design 101 lesson.

I enjoy a challenge, and I know I'm not going to be able to get down to everything but if I can have something that at least will ensure somebody who wants to go into this field, or if I ever have to design a cinema, I'll have some knowledge and won't be a complete dodo.

As for expressing my creativity, I know I can't reinvent the wheel...cant reinvent cinema auditoriums either, but I can try improve what currently exists at the Brightwater Commons cinema, and just improve the complex.

 Thanks everyone.

Cindy

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