Planning an auditorium involves careful consideration, especially regarding seating arrangements, which are integral to the overall design. Collaborating with your seating provider requires familiarity with several key terms to ensure the selection of chairs that best suit your patrons’ needs.
Here, we present ten essential seating terms and their significance in choosing seating for your auditorium:
1. Chair Envelope:
The chair envelope denotes the front-to-back dimension of an unoccupied auditorium chair, measured with the seat in the “up” position. Factors like cupholders may influence this dimension, affecting the forward extension into the row.
2. Clear Passage:
This refers to the space between the front and back of each chair, ensuring safety and enhancing patron comfort.
3. Back-To-Back Spacing (Row Spacing):
It represents the total space allocated for each row of auditorium chairs, calculated as the sum of chair envelope and clear passage. While typically three feet, additional space may be necessary depending on various factors.
4. Back Pitch:
Back pitch signifies the recline angle of the chair back, impacting comfort and viewing experience. It’s typically measured in degrees from vertical and varies based on the setting.
5. Back Height:
This measures the height from the floor to the top of the chair back, affecting both spacing and sight lines within the auditorium.
6. Eye Level:
Defined as the distance from the floor to a seated patron’s eyes, crucial for optimal sight lines towards the stage or screen.
7. Chair Size:
Referring to the width of the chair from center-of-arm to center-of-arm, influencing capacity and comfort.
8. Chair Size Line:
A consistent reference point on the chair used for layout and installation purposes, aiding in determining proper row placement within the space.
9. Back Or Chair Overhang:
This denotes the distance a chair extends backward from the chair size line, essential for avoiding obstructions and ensuring safety.
10. Row Length:
Row length encompasses chair sizes plus additional allowances for aisle ends, with accessories like cup holders impacting this dimension. It correlates with building code requirements for clear passage.
In conclusion, understanding the intended purpose of your auditorium is paramount for designing an optimal auditorium seating layout that aligns with patrons’ expectations. Working closely with layout engineers from your seating manufacturer ensures informed decisions and a tailored seating solution for your space.
Post time: Apr-16-2024
