Just over a year after the University was hit by a devastating hail storm, Llewellyn Hall, which sustained significant damage, is being transformed into a beautiful concert space that will do the campus proud

The Hall, which has hosted graduations, countless concerts and performances in the 40 years since it was built, is transforming from what sometimes felt like a concrete auditorium - albeit with great acoustics - to a stunning wood-panelled concert hall. Warm colors, an ironbark floor, wooden acoustic louvres suspended from the ceiling and a new semi-circular configuration all combine to make the space feel smaller and more intimate, without significantly reducing the amount of seating.

Geraldine Mayer, Director of Interiors at Darryl Jackson, said the building's new interior sees the acoustics and design come together. "You have a layering element, some of which are aesthetic and some of which are acoustic," she said.

The real strength of the Hall in its new incarnation will be world-class acoustics. Visiting the Hall last week were Andrew Nicol and Finola Reid from Arup Acoustics, who are overseeing the acoustic design.

"The existing acoustics were very good, and the building already enjoys a good reputation. But what we've done is build on that repertoire and enhance the acoustics for a broader range of musical experiences," Finola said.

Work is taking place at a cracking pace in the Hall in order to have it ready to reopen in May, and ready for the acousticians to test the sound throughout April.

Staff and students will be able to enjoy that broader range of musical experience in April with a series of free performances in the lead up to the gala concert to mark the reopening of Llewellyn Hall. Stay tuned to On Campus for further details.

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