The New Theatre for the University of Leeds, Bretton Hall campus, is a new Facility for the School of Performance and Cultural Industries. The building provides a flexible space for students to learn, practice and perform all the functions of a working theatre.

Silcock Dawson & Partners developed a natural ventilation solution for the main performance spaces. The room temperatures and air velocities within the performance spaces were simulated using Silcock Dawson & Partner’s computational fluid dynamic (CFD) software. A theatrical performance on the main stage and an audience of 200 people on the warmest evening of the year were assumed.

Silcock Dawson & Partners prepared several detailed reports which enabled the client to confidently implement the natural ventilation design.

With Silcock Dawson’s commitment to low energy buildings, and designing out Building Services in Partnership with our clients, we are able to demonstrate substantial Capital savings.

The savings generated allowed the installation of a first floor balcony with seating.