Exploring the Harmony of Timber and Acoustics at Colyer-Fergusson Concert Hall
The Colyer-Fergusson concert hall, winner of the UK Wood Awards 2013 (Commercial and Public Access category), is a stunning showcase of design excellence, natural materials, and acoustic mastery. Designed by Tim Ronalds Architects, this facility enhances the University of Kent’s vibrant extra-curricular music program, involving students, staff, and the wider community in diverse music-making experiences.
A Space for Music Excellence
The building features a concert hall accommodating a full orchestra, choir, and an audience of 350, complemented by a spacious foyer, practice rooms, offices, storage, and technical spaces. The exterior is constructed from flint-faced blocks with bronze powder-coated windows, blending durability with elegance.
Inside, the design emphasizes timber’s aesthetic and acoustic properties. Walls and ceilings are entirely lined in Douglas fir plywood, chosen for its warm tones and liveliness. Engineered oak flooring provides durability underfoot, while the timber’s use extends to doors, joinery, and handrails, crafting a unified, organic look.
Crafting Acoustics with Douglas Fir
At its core, the hall’s design prioritizes exceptional acoustics. Timber linings are mounted on a steel frame, reinforced by solid Douglas fir rails to prevent unwanted resonance and enhance sound diffusion. Retractable curtains hidden behind the timber panels offer the flexibility to adapt the acoustics, transforming the hall from resonant to fabric-lined softness.
The space’s versatility is further enhanced by retractable seating. These can be configured in raked arrangements or tucked away to create a flat floor. Seating fascias also feature Douglas fir, maintaining the rhythmic visual flow of the walls and ceiling.
Foyer and Finishes
The adjoining foyer serves as a welcoming space for performances and gatherings. It echoes the main hall’s design with Douglas fir finishes, paired with pistachio-green acoustic curtains for a striking yet functional contrast.
Architectural Praise and User Experience
Tim Ronalds Architects described the timber as adding warmth, character, and a tactile quality to the space. They expressed hope that the material would endure the demands of daily use while aging gracefully.
The hall’s first public concert, performed by the Brodsky Quartet, cemented its reputation as a world-class venue. The quartet praised its design, stating:
“The feeling on stage is close to perfect, with that beautiful warm wood all around. The acoustics are just fantastic. One can hear a pin drop and comfortably explore the extremes of dynamics. The University of Kent should be very proud.”
Project Details
- Architect: Tim Ronalds Architects
- Main Contractor: R Durtnell & Son
- Carpentry: Adrol
- Materials: Canadian Douglas fir (plywood and solid wood), Romanian engineered oak flooring
- Photography: C Richters, courtesy of the UK Wood Awards
The Colyer-Fergusson concert hall seamlessly blends design ingenuity, timber craftsmanship, and acoustic innovation, setting a benchmark for music venues worldwide.