South Florida theatre installs glowing architectural mesh

Originally built in 1978, the South Florida Community College (SFCC) Theatre for the Performing Arts received a complete renovation, reopening in 2010. Now seating 1,460 people, the performing arts center glows with the contrast of brass architectural mesh panels against red velvet trim and upholstery adorning the interior.

Designed by Leo A Daly Architects, and TSG Design Solutions, Inc., the theater consultants, the auditorium is the centerpiece for SFCC cultural programs. The theater interior used 1,114 sq. ft. of brass Plank mesh as infill panels on the front of the balcony boxes and as stair railings in the lobby.

The style and texture of the mesh, which features 56% open area and weighs approximately 1.3lbs/sq. ft., was specified by Florida Aluminum and Steel, the installer of the mesh systems. The framed panels not only infuse the theatre with a soft golden glow, but also act as an acoustic baffle to improve sound quality in the theater. Additionally, Cambridge architectural mesh systems are handwoven, incorporating recycled content, and are 100% recyclable.

Cambridge worked with the project team, which also included Florida Aluminum and Steel, Inc., the installers of the mesh, and Matthews Construction Co., Inc., the General Contractor for the renovation, during the design and installation. As always, Cambridge Architectural is the only full-service provider to see the project through from initial design to finality. BD+C