UNIVERSITY HALL IMPROVEMENTS

Press, Volume CI, Issue 29853, 20 June 1962, Page 20

UNIVERSITY HALL IMPROVEMENTS

Major improvements to the electrical systems for lighting, heating, and sound in the Canterbury University Hall change it from one of the most “difficult" in Christchurch to one of the most pleasant. The alterations have been made in preparation for much more extensive use of the building for both academic and cultural purposes.

The university hall has always been “difficult” because of its size. The roof is at least 40 feet high, the ancient construction was not done with acoustics in mind, and other dimensions make the hall hard to heat and light.

A dozen double-pendant light fittings (illustrated) were specially designed by the Municipal Electricity [Department and both the i brackets and tall glass-cylin-der shades were specially manufactured in Christchurch.

These fittings, through their open bottoms, throw

downwards light strong enough for easy reading. Through the frosted glasses they throw a mellow light on to the brick and stone walls. Through their open tops they brightly illumine for the first time the unusual features of the vaulted ceiling.

New concealed spitlights highlight the stage and other special features of the hall.

Round the walls, a little above head height, rows of infra-red heaters (totalling 20 kilowatts) have been hung to supplement the steam heating. New drapes have been hung at all doors to eliminate draughts. The new sound system includes two microphones built into the formal lectern, a table microphone for public functions, and a floor microphone for other occasions. These will be controlled from a “mixing” panel. Amplification speakers have still to be chosen.

All this greatly enhances the hall, which already has

such arresting features as the biggest single stainedglass window with a narrative in Christchurch, a copy of the famous paintinging of Lord Rutherford, portraits of past rectors, and memorial tablets to famous scholars. The modern service fittings in no way clash with the classical style of the hall.

Because of the pressure of student numbers, the university intends to use the hall next year for lectures to large classes and an increasing number of general lectures, concerts and other functions will be held there.

R.S.A. Welfare Grants.— Grants totalling £179 6s 7d were approved by the Christchurch Returned Services’ Association on Monday evening. Eleven applicants were granted £126 6s 7d in welfare assistance and casual grants totalled £53.