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CAROLE ELLIS HALL, SANTA ROSA JUNIOR COLLEGE

Petaluma Campus | Petaluma, CA | Complete

The new 257-seat Carole Ellis Hall is a remarkable transformation of a large flat room into a multi-level hall rich in texture and architectural detail. Its technological capabilities allow it to be used for lectures, active distance-learning/teleconferencing, cinema, small theater and performance as well as an acoustically superb small musical performance space.

In order to meet accessibility requirements the front row seating was cut in six feet below floor level providing an accessible path at mid-level of the seating and to the stage and presentation areas. The preservation of the existing arched window facing into the newly created east quadrangle connects the hall to the new library and the active heart of the campus while providing daylight and dramatic views when blackout is not required.

Extensive study of audiovisual and acoustic need was key to the success of the hall. Laminated wooden clouds reflect sound from the stage area providing excellent voice audibility as well as proper reverberation and projection for small venue musical production.