Challenging rules of thumb to redefine flexibility

Abstract

The recently completed Lindemann Performing Arts Center on the Brown University campus is an exploration in all things flexible. To satisfy the programmatic needs of Brown Arts Initiative, the primary user of this new building, who needed five rooms but only got one, the Main Hall redefined the concept of multiuse hall. All sixsurfaces that define the major acoustically supportive surfaces (ceiling elements, walls, and floors) move to manipulate the otherwise beautifully simple architectural concept into five room configurations—Orchestra, Recital, End Stage Theatre, Experimental Media, and large Flat Floor. A mix of manual and motorized curtains and banners adds still more flexibility. As the paint still dries on the building, this paper will investigate the acoustic challenges, happy accidents, and areas where we might have done with less (or more) in a building that is sometimes heavy handed and sometimes a light touch. The paper will cover topics such as glass as a major reflecting surface, wall buildups that break rules of thumb to produce warm acoustic responses, use of variable acoustic solutions, and ensemble to audience size ratios that challenge conventional wisdom.