PLUM HIGH SCHOOL
Auditorium
Plum PA

The goal was to create a natural acoustic environment that minimized the need for sound reinforcement, while preserving the structural and esthetic vision as conceived by the architect.

To accommodate 1700 seats, a large balcony had been designed which cast a significant acoustic “shadow,” compromising the ability to hear in back rows. The original room geometry also created a significant delay between direct and reflected sound, creating a disconcerting slap-echo that further interfered with performances.

Sophisticated 3-D computer modeling was used to measure anticipated reflections and calculate delays. Interactions between architectural space, surface and sound were considered, adjusted and defined, revealing significant design opportunities that the architect was able to take advantage of. Adjustments to the balcony positioning led to dramatic improvements in the room acoustics. Further improvements came through strategic placement and angling of specially designed, acoustically reflective ceiling clouds, carefully chosen wall structures and surface treatments.

Today, even in the back row, one can hear the natural sound of a single voice from the stage, with minimal need of amplification or reinforcement. From an acoustic perspective, it is almost as if every one of the 1700 seats is now “the best seat in the house.”

Honored by AMERICAN SCHOOL & UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE,
   Nov 2002 - Outstanding Buildings - Work In Progress