The starting idea was to renovate the existing auditorium and transform it into a theatre, and offer immersive multimedia technology both in the hall and in the foyer. In addition to this, the aim was also to introduce a broadcasting system to enable to broadcast the shows live from the hall. The building is located in Feletto Umberto, borough of Tavagnacco. The existing auditorium was at the service of the community, linked to the secondary school and other local activities. The refurbishment approach to the transformation is substantial, as it includes changes to the internal layout, introduces a dedicated foyer and upgrades the technical equipment. The theater completes, with the library and schools, an architectural front that complements the Feletto Umberto square.
The architectural volume harmonizes with the school complex and the historical center of Feletto Umberto.
The external covering of the theatre hall is formed by rectangular modules folded on the diagonal to create a volumetric movement.
The panels obtained through this diversity of surfaces orientation produce a reflection of light, that creates a play of colors which is by far superior to the three shades used.
Vision changes with movement, depending on the distance and point of view.
Greater emphasis is achieved at night as the ground lighting creates effects that play with the shadow areas and the different colour shades.
The welcoming function, highlighted by a metal cladding and enormous windows, is provided by the foyer which houses the bar, the ticket office and the cloakroom.
From energy sustainability point of view of, the structure used the following systems: a green roof over the entire foyer and a 20kWatt photovoltaic equipment. In addition to this, LED lighting has been installed in all internal and external areas. The building receives a CasaClima class A certification for the new construction and certification CasaClima R for the renovated part of the building.
The main project issue was the typological transition from auditorium to theater including a stage area suitable for the most varied activities.
A third of the existing auditorium was demolished to make space for the new technical volume above the stage. The intervention consists, in addition to the transformation from an auditorium to a theatre, in a seismic adaptation as the building is a strategic structure. This means that in the event of a disaster this building is used as a safe place by the community. With regard to the internal layout, the existing number of seats has been guaranteed but the stage area has been increased by 50%. The intervention also focuses on the acoustic aspect, that responds to the various activities that can be carried out within the structure.
The theater structure is equipped with a classic set out and, in addition to this, an immersive multimedia system. Within the theatre hall it is possible to project images and film both on the side walls and on the stage backdrop. In addition to multimedia system, the theatre hall is characterized by the possibility of high-resolution video recording for productions or live stream. The multimedia aspect is also proposed in the foyer with the possibility of floor and 360° wall projections. The viewer can immerse himself visually and acoustically as if he were physically in the places that are projected. The foyer could be used independently from the hall, for example for educational aspects.
A building of a vibrant light.
Francesco Marciano architectural career has mainly focused on recovery, renovation and energy efficiency interventions of schools and multifunctional buildings located in the Municipality of Tavagnacco.