“During a performance, Overture Hall has over two thousand people in it. During a rehearsal, maybe 100. The rest of the time, nobody.
The HVAC systems themselves tune to meet the precise need at the precise time it is required. Energy efficiency here means engineering to optimally meet constantly changing needs in a variety of different spaces.”
Scott Easton, PE, LEED® AP
Principal-in-Charge
The Overture Center for Performing Arts
Energy performance and the self-tuning arts center. A multi-purpose, multi-phase, 21st century cultural resource stitched into the fabric of 19th century-scaled downtown Madison, Wisconsin, the 400,000 sf Overture Center is a model of energy-efficient operation. The 400,000 square foot facility, covering one and a half city blocks, houses four sound-sensitive performance venues ranging from a 2,225-seat symphony hall and 1,100-seat drama theater to a 250-seat recital hall, as well as the humidification-specific galleries and supporting spaces of a 50,000 sf museum of contemporary art. Under floor air distribution within the large volume of the performance hall localizes temperature control to occupied space. Ductwork enlarged to reduce noise also creates less static pressure requiring less fan horsepower to move the air. Multiple air handling units with economizer controls support the respective venues throughout the facility; variable air volume systems with variable frequency drives match fan speeds and energy usage with constantly varying HVAC loads. Temperature and humidity control in museum gallery spaces uses energy recovery units, transferring heat and humidity between supply and relief air streams.
Services: Mechanical, Electrical, Piping/Plumbing, Technology, Sustainability, Architectural Lighting Design
Size: 400,000 sf
Location: Madison, WI
Architect: Pelli Clark Pelli
Awards: Midwest Construction |
