The existing auditorium at Pocantico Hills School was in need of an update to improve the acoustics and interior environment.
The Pocantico Hills School in Westchester County, New York was built in 1932, with the Auditorium addition added in 1953. The school serves 400 students in kindergarten through eighth grade. After experiencing issues with poor sound, inadequate lighting, and uncomfortable seating in their well-used Auditorium, an upgrade was planned.
H2M removed the existing ceiling and redesigned the space for a modern, audio-visual experience. A new ceiling with acoustic panels was installed in order to maximize the effects of the state-of-the-art professional sound equipment. Soft recessed lighting was put in to provide proper illumination in the seating area, theatrical lights were installed on the stage, and a large retractable projector screen was added. A separate control booth was incorporated for the sound mixing boards and stage lighting console. Interior renovations included new seating, repairing/refinishing the wood stage, new stage curtains, new doors, new ductwork insulation for noise control, and new wood soffit decorative trim.
Upon completion, the school productions are now also a source of pride for the community.