UC Davis Ann E. Pitzer Recital Hall

Davis, CA

The Ann E. Pitzer Recital Hall and classroom building at UC Davis is a perfect example of form and function coming together to create a beautiful space. The 399-seat recital hall was designed to meet the needs of the growing music department. Structurally, the roof is framed steel with a concrete overlay to minimize outside noise and reverberation, and the ceiling consists of wooden acoustic paneling. Aesthetically pleasing acoustical wood curtains are built around the interior walls of the recital hall. A spacious two-story lobby welcomes students and patrons, easily accommodating performances and events. The classrooms were carefully designed to maximize the space for music students by interconnecting classrooms, a sound mixing room and a green room to allow students to easily maneuver instruments to and from the stage. The challenge was not only to connect the rooms, but to place each room in relation to the average amount of noise that would be produced in that room. The entire facility was designed to ensure the acoustics in each area were of the highest standard.