• Sector: Public space
  • Location: Chicago, Illinois
  • Architect/Specifier: Ryan Companies
  • Product: Techstyle Classic Series

In the concession areas surrounding the U-shaped arena, designers envisioned a modern, spare space for the arena's many visitors to traverse on their way to the seating areas. The final design called for a sleek, metal ceiling with subtle visual interest, and Hunter Douglas Contract 300c Wide Panel Luxalon metal ceilings were used for their combination of solid acoustical performance and aesthetics. Luxalon's smooth, clean look gives the walkways a modern, spare look, and its acoustical properties effectively dampen patron sound - key for a highly trafficked area designed in this instance to have a sleek appearance.

In the smaller, upper-tier luxury boxes, Techstyle acoustical panels were installed to enhance acoustical comfort and create a unique aesthetic. These suites were designed as intimate spaces for small groups to enjoy events in a prime location situated around the top of the arena. At the border of these spaces Techstyle Acoustical Ceilings are employed to great functional and aesthetic effect to manage sound entering from the main arena. Panels were placed along the outer overhang above the suites, angled 45 degrees upward. In this position, the Techstyle panels help absorb crowd noise and sound from nearby sound systems. Adding a memorable visual effect, the panels are lit from behind and emanate a noticeable glow, taking advantage of the Techstyle's luminescent properties. This gives the arena what Hyman calls "a beautiful halo effect."

In the bar overlooking the areana, designers envisioned a comfortable atmosphere complete with the natural beauty of wood. Here, wood-finish ceilings from Hunter Douglas were selected to complete the look. These ceilings were designed to deliver ambience in a location in need of durable, long lasting material that withstands the wear, tear, and spills of thousands of visitors. The Luxalon metal panels with a wood finish offered low maintenance. Their acoustical properties also helped dampen sound entering from outside the bar, as well as noise inside, to create a more intimate, lounge feel.

Creating acoustics and appearances that were designed for each area was worth the extra effort. According to Hyman, "If patrons can't hear? they're not going to leave the Centre happy? Our primary goal is to provide patrons with the best possible experience while visiting the arena for every type of event."

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