Lubbock High School Auditorium Renovations, Lubbock, Texas

Lubbock Independent School District

The Lubbock Independent School District commissioned BGR Architects, to perform complete architectural services to renovate the auditoriums at all four Lubbock High Schools, including the auditorium at Lubbock High School.  Being over 8o years of age, the Lubbock High School auditorium was in need of modernizing the audio-visual and theatrical systems, replacing audience seating, and renovating the interior finishes.

Lubbock High School is listed in the National Register of Historic Places, thus, requiring great care in the selection of components that match the original furnishings.  The project team was able to successfully identify and procure new chairs with highly articulated cast iron standards that are a near-perfect match with the originals.  Additionally, the design team successfully re-designed the embroidered script lettering in the drapery valance, to be more in character with the lettering in the original drapery (circa 1931).

Existing house and theatrical lighting were replaced with new LED fixtures.  The theatrical rigging, lighting, and controls were updated with modern digital equipment, providing LISD with state-of-the-art systems to benefit their productions and, more importantly, their academic theater programs.  Additionally, existing rigging was replaced with new rigging capable of supporting loads commensurate with professional productions, including acoustical shells, backdrops, scenery, drapery, etc.  These systems will allow students to become trained in using the types of modern theatrical equipment they will encounter in higher education and public performance venues.  New Audio/Visual systems include an all new wide-format HD projector and projection screen, all new full frequency spectrum loudspeaker system, with full surround-sound capability.

The original audience seats were replaced with modern seats with padded and fabric covered backs and seats.  The floors were refinished with epoxy resin covering under the seating areas, and carpet in the aisles and front-of-stage areas.  Ceilings and walls were repaired and re-painted.  All materials, colors, and textures were selected with careful sensitivity to the architectural heritage and local cultural characteristics of the campus.

A variety of acoustical control devices were installed, based on needs determined by careful acoustical analysis and engineering.  These devices include wall mounted fabric wrapped tectum panels, wooden box diffusers, and curvilinear diffuser units.