Accoustics Hamer Hall

The new design improves some of the original legacies of the post-war model of “wide” auditoriums; the stall walls have been narrowed by three metres and a section of the old balcony has been removed, which not only eliminates acoustic “dead” spots within the Hall but also provides clear views to the stage.

The stage itself is an example of contemporary theatre technology and acoustic smarts. Above the stage hangs the new “technical zone” that houses lights and sound equipment whilst flying acoustic operable reflectors “tune the room” to suit the performance style, be it a solo piano performance, philharmonic orchestra or rock concert. New solid side and back walls to the stage, lined with bronze panels, bounce a clearer sound to the audience with the assistance of a new “live” stage floor mounted on acoustic pads.

Plywood chairs with vibrant orange fabric replace the old narrow chairs, adding warmth and depth to the auditorium. The new 2,640 seats, designed by Spanish company Figueras, were chosen for their acoustic qualities. Every part of the seat has been considered: the density of the foam, the exposed plywood back and base and the permeable fabric were chosen for their reflective and absorptive qualities.

The auditorium walls have been painted with a special render applied at thicknesses of 2mm and 3.5mm. The varying thicknesses, specified by the acoustician, improve the way frequencies resonate in the room. Once the walls were treated, scenic artist Ross Turner form Scenic Studios, who first painted the walls 30 years ago, recreated the Hall’s original faux-rock look.