The first phase of the Arc Arena, The Arc Cinema re-opened its doors in December 2018 after undergoing a 4 month refurbishment, a very tight timeline for all concerned.
The new 6 screen complex is located in a 1970s building. Existing low ceiling heights and structural columns punctuating the spaces created quite a design challenge. The new brighter and more spacious entrance foyer sees higher dark grey ceilings in the centre of the space with lower ceilings to the perimeter that appear ‘floating’ due to concealed lighting, all giving the illusion of more height.
Circular LED pendant lights of varying diameter give contrast to the darker ceilings and ‘pull’ the cinema goer towards the various screens. Angled red side lit panels line the side walls of the cinemas giving a three-dimensional effect. Red carpets on the floors complete the ‘red box’ enclosure for each screen. Deep and wide leather armchair type seats provide a very comfortable experience when watching a movie. Red is a key theme throughout representing the glamour of cinemas in days gone by.
An LED screen running across the full width of the building exterior provides for continually changing images and acts as the main cinema signage rather than conventional signage. Movies, advertisements and general information can all be shown creating a dynamic night-time effect drawing the cinema goer inside.
Architect & Interior Designer – Oppermann Associates
Structural Engineers – Lohan Donnelly
Services Engineers – Metec
Project Manager – The Building Consultancy
Fire Consultants – Goldsmiths
Main Contractor – All Systems
Photography by: Alan Currie