London-based architecture firm Studio Seilern Architects has completed a new performing arts centre at Wellington College in Berkshire. The main 1,400 capacity auditorium’s circular shape is inspired by historic Greek amphitheatres, creating a building with no angles: a form that sits within its forest setting. 

Designed with high quality acoustics and efficient circulation in mind, the £15m Performance Arts Centre was designed as a new venue for students to showcase their creative talents in a formal setting.

Named GW Annenberg Performing Arts Centre, the shape of the auditorium was chosen to give an intimacy to the performance. This was important both from an audience point of view but also to allow young performers not to feel overwhelmed by a large auditorium. The theatre allows them to feel close and supported by their friends and the wider school community. The auditorium caters to multiple uses during and out of school times.

The auditorium balcony fronts have been designed as an evolving surface that reflects and scatters the sound to maximise the theatrical experience.

In addition to the auditorium, Studio Seilern Architects designed a "Cultural Living Room" space which doubles as a foyer and a creative hub for the arts: a place that can cater for exhibitions, smaller impromptu performances, creative teaching and cultural gatherings. 

Fronted by a glass façade, it is transparent and open to the wider campus, giving an active frontage and a face to Wellington’s artistic activities.The building is clad in stained timber, sitting softly alongside the dark bark vernacular textures. 

"This wonderful building will not only benefit the pupils and parents of Wellington but will also bring together our local community and our many partnership schools. It is to be a beacon of excellence and a powerful symbol of the way in which the Arts can transform both lives and communities," said Julian Thomas, Master of Wellington.

The studio has closely worked with theatre consultants Charcoalblue with Acoustic Consultants Bickerdlike Allen Partners. 

All images © Hufton + Crow

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