Motion Picture Herald (May-Jun 1946)

CONCERNING THE . . . how some things can be done and how some things might be done better. THE QUESTION OF UPPER LEVEL SEATING UPPER LEVEL seating is normally used where ground space is insufficient for the required seating capacity. In a large percentage of the new theatre projects, there is usually sufficient area to place the required number of seats on one floor. It becomes an important question, then, as to whether it is advisable to eliminate the use of upper level seating where it is possible to accommodate all the chairs on one floor. There are two reasons why one-floor seating can be preferred : ( 1 ) smaller construction cost; and (2) greater ease in control of ushering and supervision of the audience. Yet it may be that these reasons are not sufficiently important to eliminate the consideration of upper level seating altogether. For one thing, properly designed upper levels aflford excellent viewing positions and can be used to decrease the maximum viewing distance, which in turn permits decrease of picture size with loss of dramatic impact. It is also preferable to decrease viewing distances for acoustical purposes. Viewing distance is decreased, of course, only if the upper level seating overhangs the main floor seating. This overhang should not be more than approximately ten rows. A five or six-row overhang gives best results because it does not pocket the area underneath the overhang too much. Excessive overhangs introduce an oppressive feeling for those seated beneath it. AUDITORIUM COLORS ALTHOUGH NEUTRAL color is highly advisable for auditorium treatment in the front half, some rich color and decoration can be used without disturbing the desired neutral picture surroundings. The carpeting can be very colorful because it does not invade the arc of vision in watching the screen. The screen curtain can be very rich in color and design if they are drawn completely out of view during the picture projection period. Color and decorative design can of THEATRE BUILDING by BEN SCHLANGER Theatre Architect & Consultant course always be used in the rear half of the auditorium, which is seen upon leaving. Color is also introduced very effectively in intermission lighting. The upholstery of the auditorium seating can also be colorful without disturbing a neutral picture setting. Filament light sources should be used for lighting the face in cosmetic rooms, in preference, I believe, to fluorescent lighting. The former is more flattering. Fluorescent lighting is most effective for the display cases. Slimline lamps in decorative patterns should prove very popular for lobby and foyer spaces, and especially over important stairways, to produce directional design. METAL TRIM VALUES THE USE OF metal trim for displays and other decoration on the street front produces dignity and richness in design. However, it is important to think of the maintenance problem in selecting metals. Bronze, which is one of the nicest finishes, is most easily maintained and is best looking when given a satin finish and coated with lacquer. This lacquer, subject to local climatic conditions, will last anywhere from six months to a year and eliminate the need for polishing. The only cleaning necessary would be with a dry cloth. Aluminum is too soft a metal and is subject to scratching and discoloration. A process called "alumiliting" creates a more or less permanent glazed coating which is practical if it is not placed where it can be scratched with a sharp tool or key. Such scratches cannot ever be made to disappear entirely. Stainless steel does not require any maintenance other than a dry cloth or an occasional soap-and-water cleaning. It is expensive, however. Baked enamel on steel is <:olorful and attractive, but should not be used at a level where it is subject to abuse because it is impossible to patch peeled or cracked areas, at any rate in a manner that doesn't show the patch. 28 BETTER THEATRES. MAY 4, 1946