The American School in London, Centre for Education & the Arts | Foster Wilson Architects

This school theatre forms part of the original school complex, constructed in 1970. It was accommodated within a standard storey height, resulting in a very low ceiling, poor proportions and a lack of technical facilities.

The new theatre radically alters the space by lowering the stage level by 2.8m and remodelling the auditorium and stage. The increased height allows the introduction of new technical installations, including stage suspensions and a lighting bridge, as well as a steeper seating rake which improves the focus of the room. Extensive structural alterations have been required to underpin the existing structure and remove existing columns in the stage area. Existing dressing rooms have been improved and a new goods lift installed serving the stage. A new displacement ventilation system, with plant at roof level, improves audience comfort and acoustic performance and meets the requirements of current technical standards.