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COORDINATING ACOUSTICS AND ARCHITECTURE IN THE DESIGN OF THE MOTION PICTURE THEATER*
C. C. POTWIN** AND B. SCHLANGERf
Summary. — In past practice, acoustics has been overlooked as a function of the architectural planning of motion picture theater structures. The need for and the extensive use of sound-absorbing devices in existing buildings have led to reliance upon corrective methods in the planning of new designs.
The constructive approach to the solution of acoustical problems in new design is achieved only through proper determination of the basic proportions, cubic-foot volume per seat, and detailed form of the auditorium structure.
The purpose of this paper is to show that acoustics can be coordinated constructively with the other primary functions of theater planning to develop a more efficient and more economical design and one that truly expresses modern and creative architecture.
A critical distinction of modern architecture from prior technic lies in a more candid evaluation of function. Because of the persistence of superficial ornamentation, however, this fundamental is frequently lost in our conception of what really constitutes modern design. We need not here go into the history of the modern approach to architectonics ; suffice it to point out that it assuredly did not have its real origin in ornamentation. Instead, it began as a method of using our standard and new materials for the creation of buildings better suited to our need of them.
Despite widespread digressions, which continue to exalt the purely aesthetic evaluations, modernism in architecture is the offspring of science, not of fine art. Modern science has revised our approach to most things. Giving us knowledge of a thousand venerable mysteries, it has discouraged circumlocution and falsity in our expressions generally. To be really modern in architecture is to go straight to the purpose of a building, and to develop it in plan and structure according to an honest acceptance of that purpose, providing in the forms and devices that serve it a beauty that is inherent.
* Presented at the 1938 Fall Meeting at Detroit, Mich.; received December 12, 1938.
** Electrical Research Products, Inc., New York, N. Y. t Theater Architect, New York, N. Y.
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