VENUE 087


Photo by James Field Photography


Next is a brand new theatre, a second performance space, which is generally used for smaller scaled events. Plus, the AEC is also suit- able for weddings, Christmas parties, school formals, gala dinners, cocktail parties, corporate luncheons and seminars, so this venue really does cater for a wide variety of functions. Perhaps considered the most striking aspect of the overhaul is the erection of the 18 metre high dome at the entrance to the venue, which has been named the ‘Orb’. Back in 2008, at the beginning of this project, architect Ian Khoo of Design Inc and his team were given very clear guidelines from the AEC on what the entry experi- ence should be. Ian explained: “We were to create a dynamic entry statement which is characterised as ‘iconic, dynamic, contemporary, sense of excitement, energy, urgency and movement’. And although the facility caters for events suitable for all ages, the personality of the new entry was to appeal to young adults as the target demographic.” The Design Inc team recognised early on that the AEC is a significant landmark as well as an essential part of the experience of Adelaide, and therefore the concept was required to be of a mesmorising stan- dard. Khoo went on to discuss the concept of the Orb in further detail: “While no idea is really created in isolation without influences, the dome geometry and structure was designed specifically for the AEC setting. The Orb’s geometry is based on a toroidal rotation segment and can be seen as a trimmed segment from a doughnut-like shape.


Unlike a simple spherical dome, the toroidally generated dome was carefully proportioned to provide a more elliptical footprint rather than a pure circle. This generates a more dynamic feel to the space, as well as providing both a centralised and directional spatial experience with the main axis aligned with the existing arena entry and the minor axis aligning with the new theatre venue and Star Room function centre courtyard.


“The overall dome shape and trailing edge of the Orb also echo the existing curve of the existing arena with the leading edge providing a lower scaled transition and overhang to the entry and VIP drop-off on Port Road. Also critical in the evolution of the Orb geometry was how the structure interfaced with the plaza floor. Its intended role is to be an iconic entry feature providing direct access to all the key venues of the centre.”


When it came to selecting the correct systems to realise Design Inc’s vision, the baton fell to consultant on the project, Aurecon, and spe- cialist lighting designers Lighting Design Partnership (LDP). Founding Director of LDP Andre Tammes said: “The scope of work as far as we were concerned was two fold really, one was to design and engineer, with others, the use of the LED system on the ETFE pillows, and that was in many senses the main part of the work. There was, however, a secondary part of the work, which was to ensure public safety.” At full capacity the arena can house up to 12,000 people, and with


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