Architecture
Equinox Amphitheatre
In section, the form is defined by the angle of the Summer and Winter solstices. The equinox defined the oculus opening.
The canopy features a steel structure with a translucent solar voltaic skin that generates electricity.
The seat numbers correspond with the time of day, whilst the row numbers correspond with the months of the year.
The generated electricity then needed to be stored.
The solution utilises the gravitational potential energy of water.
During the day solar energy is in abundance and water is pumped from the bottom water store to the top.
Then at night, the water is released and flows through a turbine. Converting potential to electrical energy which powers the lighting.
Evocative stage lighting is concealed in the steel structure of the roof. The intensity, colour and motion are controlled by the performance.
Sound sensors allow for brighter lighting as the performance gets louder.
Way-finding lighting is also recessed into the seating bullnose edge.
Before
After
