Hill Auditorium colors return splendor

Artist’s conception of the ceiling in Hill Auditorium after rennovation. (Image courtesy of Quinn Evans Architects)

Brilliant golds, warm grays and muted greens and blues will restore Hill Auditorium’s ceilings and walls to their original splendor, as the color palette was approved by the Regents at their December meeting. New seats in deep burgundy are designed to further delight the senses with rich complementary hues.

The Regents approved a revised $38.6 million budget, funded by central administration and private gifts. The augmented funding will enable construction of a new lower lobby to enhance guest comfort, an increase of restrooms from 10 to 27 and a concessions stand. Construction begins in May 2002 and will continue through November 2003.

Renovations approved at previous Regents’ meetings include plans to bring the structure into compliance with current codes. The front plaza will be restored and the exterior ramp replaced. More seating will be provided for the disabled. Seats on the main level will be replaced and a sound lock between the outside and the performance space will be created. Medallions in the ceiling and the nearly 260 lights contained in them will be restored.

Engineers have worked to ensure that the renowned acoustics of the parabolic design of the hall will remain intact. The Regents also authorized receiving bids and awarding construction contracts.