Frensham Heights School, Performing Arts Theatre

Burrell Foley Fischer Architects, Surrey, 2000

 

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Main entrance, building depicting a barn-type morphology cladded in laminated timber larch boarding  

Dennis Gilbert/View (website)     Download Original

  • Main entrance, building depicting a barn-type morphology cladded in laminated timber larch boarding     
  •     
  • West elevation through the main foyer space which faces onto the wooded parkland site    
  • View from head of internal stair with the external timber balcony beyond    
  • Main foyer and bar area with staircase access to first floor auditorium    
  • View from the stage set out in conventional style    
  • Main entrance with control room projecting at first floor level    
  • Subtle lighting and simple materials soften this space    
  • Ground floor-plan    
  • First floor-plan    
  • Possible variations of seating layouts    
  • Possible variations of seating layouts    
  • Possible variations of seating layouts    
  • Cross-section    
  • Detail through wall and gall    
  • Section through wall and galleries    

Theatre built for both teaching use and public performance in a woodland setting in the south east of England

The building is sited within the grounds of a Victorian mansion and rests calmly behind a screen of mature oak trees through which the lively foyer areas can be seen on approach. This is reflected in its form depicting a barn-type morphology.

The auditorium is modelled on double cube proportions, creating a very adaptable space rising in three tiers to an exposed trussed rafter roof. Staging can be arranged in a variety of layouts and the seating can be electronically retracted to give a level floor surface throughout.

Data

  • Begun: Apr 1999
  • Completed: Mar 2000
  • Floor area: 1,198m2
  • Sectors: Arts and culture, Education
  • Total cost: £1.4M
  • Tender date: Dec 1998
  • Procurement: JCT 80
  • Address: Rowledge, Farnham, Surrey, GU10 4EA, United Kingdom

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