Performing Arts Facilities in Schools

Click to enlarge Lobby.

An integrated music/drama suite was added to an existing music block via a substantial lobby, making the facility suitable for small public performances. The lobby has a landscaped public entrance, kitchen, and toilets.

Click to enlarge Music room.

The lobby opens directly into a new music room and a new drama room. A shared staff room opens onto both music and drama rooms (but not onto the lobby).

Existing music facilities were enhanced by the addition of storage and practice rooms, one of which features a double wall to prevent sound transmission from an adjoining classroom. To build the wall, double plasterboard was fixed over new framing built beside the existing wall but prevented from touching it by separators. In addition, the flooring of the practice room was separated from the walls.

Click to enlarge Drama room.

The drama room is close to square (around 13 x 13 metres). It has high windows and two storage rooms opening onto the main space. Panel heaters on the ceiling are controlled from within the room, lighting bars are fixed at a variety of heights, and a continuous curtain rail runs one metre out from all four walls.

Click to enlarge Hand basin.

Water is available to all music students at a hand basin in a convenient place in the corridor.