Fairfield Halls

The acoustic design for the concert hall retains the highly regarded acoustics of the original auditorium, while also improving flexibility for different types of performance by adding a series of concealed, motorised acoustic banners. The new ventilation system has bespoke noise control to achieve very low noise levels despite constraints on duct routes and location of air-supply points. The final result is a crystal clear acoustic in the hall. 

Our overarching ambition in re-lighting Fairfield Halls was to restore the original character of the venue but use the latest technologies to minimise energy costs and increase flexibility and control. We created bespoke lighting fixtures, both by refurbishing and adapting what was already on site and by designing new lights based on old photographs and archive evidence. Fortunately, a long-term partner in lighting, Dernier & Hamlyn, was based locally and developed the design and manufacture of the fittings. 

The team’s extensive knowledge about the heritage of lighting helped ensure the new scheme met all our aspirations. The bespoke main foyer lighting reflects the building’s original ceiling design and creates clean and inviting arrival spaces, natural daylight creates a light and airy feel to the front of house spaces, while the original 1960s heritage chandeliers have been refurbished with high-efficiency LED light sources and dimming control.