21.4.18

Auditorium Theater Seating Design Guidelines

By Richard Moore


There are two ways for patrons to be seated for a performance in a hall. The first form is multiple aisle. This allows two aisles for each row. The number of rows depends on how big the room is, for the most part. The other form is continental. This is one big block of chairs positioned at the center of the room. If done well, this allows for more auditorium theater seating. In this case, the exit doors have to be placed strategically.

The layout of the hall is dictated by the floor construction. It can go one of two ways. The first is curved. If the floor is constructed in a curved manner, the chairs will have to be arranged the same way. If the floor is straight then the chairs will be straight. This should be adhered to for the simple reason of patron comfort.

Before bringing in designers and professionals with all sorts of opinions, develop own vision of the room. Paint a mental picture. Does the mental picture feature practicality? Practicality is all about expected capacity and form-fitting into the function. The chairs are an important part of that picture. Do they satisfy the ergonomic aspects? What kind of chairs could be served by the budget but still offer the appropriate amount of luxury?

Enter the accessories. These are items that one could do without but boy would they be nice to have. What accessories would be important to the patrons of the establishment? Are they the kind of people to bring drinks hence needing cup holders? Are they the kind of people to need swivel tables and electric outlets? How about recliners? Does the establishment serve a clientele that appreciates a lean back?

The different functions of the hall will feature in the design decisions. What kinds of events are slated to be held in the space? Will space be all purpose? For example, think about that famous UN hall. The designer must have thought about the royalty and top notch people who would be in there. He or she probably thought about the concerts and serious conversations that would be had in there. These featured in the decision to make it tasteful and simple with a sufficient touch of elegance.

Next on the list of considerations is seating codes. There are codes specifying about spacing and passageways. The same codes mention emergency protocols and emergency exits. The chairs have to be arranged in such a way that form of arrangement will not be deterrent to exit during emergencies. There should also not be a chance that some people will get trampled over. Adequate accessibility for disabled patrons is also a big stipulation in the codes.

Making all of these decisions might be difficult for a person lacking in experience and knowledge. Therefore, it is okay to get a professional to help through all the decisions. A professional will be instrumental in introducing new technologies and accessories.

Remember that the sole reason for designing the hall is to enhance the relationship between the stage and the audience. The patrons need to have great vertical and horizontal visibility.




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