Courtesy of©3XN
Three sculpted volumes come together to create 3XN’s proposal for the Dublin National Concert Hall, which was one of two final contestants in a 2008 invited competition. Each mass houses its own unique concert hall, with the three connected by way of a Grand Entrance located in the historic Butler building with whom the venue shares a site. This foyer acts as an organizer and way finder, like many small-scale yet spirited city streets. It ebbs and flows, growing smaller, growing larger, splitting into tributaries- creating a dynamism that links the structure.
The three halls each maintain their own identities while complementing each other in size, function, and acoustic objectives. They were designed above and beyond expected requirements, with leading consultants in acoustics (Larry Kierkegaard from Chicago), lighting (Steven Scott from Denmark), and stage design (Charcoal Blue from London) being brought in toto the fold. The following is the architects’ description of the three:
Courtesy of©3XN
Hall 1 is designed to be reminiscent of the fine lines and interior of a fine classical wooden instrument; providing a warm intimacy between musicians and patrons. Hall 2 should be restored to its original glory with its classic layout and respect for tradition. Hall 3 is designed to be the most flexible and multi-functional of the three Halls.
Courtesy of©3XN
