All teaching spaces should meet fundamental student needs, they need to be able to see, or hear clearly and be comfortable. Requirements which call for more thought in a lecture theatre than in a standard classroom.
Layout design must ensure everyone has an unobstructed view of lecturers, boards, or screens. You may need to cater for multiple entrances, or exits, to include wheelchair stations, ensure equipment can be moved in and out.
An easy flow of foot traffic within the space should be allowed for. Part of a welcoming, engaging environment which also has to meet sensory needs.
Acoustics And Lighting
In an ideal world, lecture theatres are located away from noisy activities but not always possible.You may have input from acoustic and audio visual specialists for the infrastructure, although furnishings have their part to play.
The choice of flooring makes a difference, fabric wrapped panels on furniture can help absorb sound, other internal panels can be placed to diffuse noise. As with the shape of the room, furnishings shapes can matter.
Window noise can be lessened and light from them controlled, or eliminated. Venetian, or roller blinds are an option, alongside further ways of controlling opacity.
Internal lighting needs equal thought. Having this controllable by zone from the front to the rear is useful for presentations, improves visibility and atmosphere.
Automated lighting control systems are often an asset, perhaps coupled with audiovisual controls. Having manual overrides available also makes sense.
Support From Morgan Stewart
Aisles in a lecture hall should be laid out to maximise prime viewing, a logical part of planning and design we will focus on in a flexible way.
Fixed seating is common but you might wish to incorporate movable seating, provide tablet arms, interactive spaces. Related areas may need durable, yet sympathetic furniture, perhaps a lobby area, or preparation room.
Aesthetic considerations are at the heart of our educational furniture design, as is listening to your needs to ensure they are met.
Viewing visual input and understanding the human voice are core needs in a lecture theatre. Morgan Stewart Interiors design and installation teams can help you achieve these aims, you are welcome to get in touch and talk through your project.
Our recent fixed and movable lecture theatre designs
