Research into Function and Design of Theatres.

University Degree Architecture, Building and Planning

CHAPTER 4 Project Profile Analysis

4.1 Historical Background

4.1.1 History of theatre and performing arts in the world

The history of performing arts goes back thousands of years. Highlights of the important events are that, first, Greeks embraced the concept of drama and wrote plays to be performed. Standing out among the best are the plays written by Sophocles. It is also believed that there were performing artists in parts of China at around the same time. Elements of music have been found across all civilizations throughout history. Many of the performing arts stopped in the years after the fall of the Roman Empire. The Christians, who had stopped all public performances, started allowing them again sometime after 900 to celebrate Easter. The new performing art type of ballet was introduced in Italy around the 1500s. A century later, Shakespeare's plays were being performed. Romeo and Juliet became the first Shakespeare play to be performed in America. Later in 20th century brought modern technology to the performing arts with innovations in film and television.

Theater probably arose as a performance of ritual activities that did not require initiation on the part of the spectator. Introduced by the Romans, the first building used for theatrical performances were Amphitheatres who copied theatres from ancient Greece. These were semi-circular structures, constructed of wood initially and later rebuilt in stone. They were open to the air with banked seating surrounding a raised stage.

Medieval theatre was presented on elaborate temporary stages inside great halls, barns, or in the open courtyards of galleried inns. It was from these that Elizabethan timber-framed open-air theatres took their form. They were multi-sided buildings, with a covered platform stage against one side. The audience sat or stood in covered galleries around the other side or in the open courtyard. All the performances took place in daylight.

On the Seventeenth Century, interest in theatre increased during the Stuart period. Many rich courtiers and aristocrats hosted touring theatrical productions in their homes. Masques too were a popular form of recreation for the royal court and the very rich, often commissioned for celebrations. They would involve music, dance and elaborate costumes and scenery. The architect Inigo Jones devised the sets for several royal masques, and later went on to design theatre buildings. He had toured Italy and France and was heavily influenced by their designs. He is also attributed with introducing the first proscenium arch – a decorative architectural frame over a thrust stage.

Theatrical performances were outlawed owing to the threat of civil unrest. Theatres closed and many were demolished.

Following the Restoration of the monarchy twenty years later, interest in theatre resumed. In reward for their loyalty to the Crown, Charles II issued patents to two theatre companies in London, Davenant and Killigrew, to stage drama. They presented at various sites across the city before they set up permanent theatres in Drury Lane and Covent Garden. Later, the King issued limited patents to a few more theatres in London. However, by this time, theatre buildings began to change, influenced by those in Europe. They were now roofed, with stages for changeable scenery that was slid into position using grooves in their floors. Other scenery was flown in from above. To accommodate these elaborate stage sets more space was therefore needed behind the stage.

Another court architect, Christopher Wren, is also known to have drafted designs for theatres.

Also in the eighteenth century, companies of players began to travel on regular circuits between market towns. They set up their own theatres, called playhouses, which were similar in shape and size. This enabled stock scenery to be easily erected and reused, which made touring easier. Hundreds were built, of modest size and exterior. Their interiors were simple, consisting of a rectangular flat-floored room with a stage that projected into the audience. People sat on benched seating on the floor in front of the stage, or on balconies against the three remaining walls supported by columns or wooden posts. Any scenery was placed at the rear of the stage. The rich could pay a little more in order to sit on the stage, not just for better viewing, but also to be seen by the rest of the audience and the cast. These theatres were open for limited periods, and when not needed for performances could be used for other functions such as assembly rooms or ballrooms.

Theatres had mainly wooden interiors which were always at risk of fire. In 1794 the Drury Lane Theatre, London introduced the first iron safety curtain, which would eventually become a statutory requirement in all large theatres. It also had a large water tank on its roof – a feature that was adopted by other theatres – to extinguish fire in the stage area. The theatre also began to make its scenery more fire-resistant.

By the end of the century the façades of many city theatres were built in the more imposing classical style. Some even had porticoes, similar to those seen on the front of large city homes or country seats. They were added mainly for show, but a few enabled the rich to descend from their carriages and enter the theatre without being exposed to any inclement weather.

In the early 1800s, theatre attendance lessened, owing partly to economic decline and poor standards of acting and production. Patronage by the middle classes also fell as a result of theatre’s increasingly bad reputation and raucous nature. Consequently many closed or were converted to other uses.

The Industrial Revolution saw many people from the country migrate to the expanding industrial towns. This resulted in the decline of rural theatres, although some touring companies around the country continued to operate, but mainly from barn fit-ups. However, in the more populated urban centres there was a significant increase in theatre building.

In 1843, the Theatres Act removed the patent monopoly and allowed other theatres to present drama, with censorship still controlled by the Lord Chamberlain. This encouraged the building of new theatres, invariably by speculators seeking profit.

The act also legislated against the consumption of alcohol in the auditorium. This led to the closure of many small saloon theatres, which relied upon alcohol sales to stay in business. Yet, the same legislation enabled magistrates to grant public houses licences to offer a variety of entertainment, licences which led to the creation of a new form of popular theatrical entertainment known as music hall. Very soon, concert or supper rooms were built onto public houses which could sell alcohol and serve meals during their musical productions. They were usually well-lit rooms with a flat floor and a simple open platform stage with little or no scenery. The audience would sit on benches or at tables in front of the stage, or on balconies against one or more of the walls. They could come and go freely during the evening and were not restricted to performance times.

Eventually a specific type of theatre building was developed to cater for this new form of entertainment, called a music hall. They had fewer tables in front of the stage, using the space for benched seating to accommodate more people. Hundreds were built in working class areas as money-making concerns. Just like theatres, successful music halls were demolished and replaced by larger halls to accommodate even more customers.

New theatres were built with boxes, in which only a few people sat. Although they were close to the stage, they did not have the best views. But, they allowed the rich to sit apart from the rest of the audience in a prominent position, enabling them to be seen and admired in all their finery and jewelry. In some theatres the boxes were large enough to be used as a social space, with curtains that could be closed so that the occupants could enjoy supper or drinks.

Often, older theatres were demolished and rebuilt to accommodate larger audiences. In the auditorium, rectangular galleries began to be replaced by horseshoe-shaped balconies that enveloped the stage and provided better viewing.

The intention was to bring respectability to theatre-going and make it more socially acceptable for the middle classes. To achieve this, different classes were segregated: financially by the cost of the tickets; and physically by the requirement to use separate entrances and exits and circulation routes. The rich entered via illuminated entrances, with grand staircases and rich carpets: the cheaper seats via smaller side or rear entrances, with less grand staircases and public areas. Also, the benched pit in front of the stage was replaced by more comfortable seats and carpeted aisles for the rich. The cheaper seats were now restricted to the rear stalls behind a wooden barrier, known as the ‘pit’, and the balcony or gallery.

The beginning of the twentieth century saw the introduction of a new component in variety bills that would eventually lead to the closure of hundreds of theatres and music halls.

World War I suspended theatre building, but by then it had reached a peak and demand was satisfied. By then, large towns might have two or three theatres while cities could have up to a dozen.

4.1.2 History of theatre and performing arts in the Philippines

In many forms, theater was and still an effective medium in the Philippines to promote social and cultural awareness, as a means of entertainment and a liberal way to express one’s opinion.

Music

The early music of the Philippines featured a mixture of Indigenous, Islamic and a variety of Asian sounds that flourished before the European and American colonization in the 16th and 20th centuries. Spanish settlers and Filipinos played a variety of musical instruments, including , , , , and . They performed songs and dances to celebrate festive occasions. By the 21st century, many of the folk songs and dances have remained intact throughout the Philippines. Some of the groups that perform these folk songs and dances are the , Filipinescas, Barangay-Barrio, Hariraya, the Karilagan Ensemble, and groups associated with the guilds of , and Fort Santiago theatres. Many Filipino musicians have risen prominence such as the composer and conductor , the composer , known for his nationalistic themes and the opera singer .

Modern day Philippine music features several styles. Most music genres are contemporary such as , and other musical styles. Some are traditional such as .

Dance

Philippine folk dances include the and . In the southern region of Mindanao, Singkil is a popular dance showcasing the story of a prince and princess in the forest. poles are arranged in a pattern in which the dancers exploit every position of these clashing poles.

Cinema and television

The advent of the can be traced back to the early days of in 1897 when a Spanish theater owner screened imported moving pictures.

The formative years of Philippine cinema, starting from the 1930s, were a time of discovery of film as a new medium of expressing artworks. Scripts and characterizations in films came from popular theater shows and Philippine literature.

In the 1940s, Philippine cinema brought the consciousness of reality in its film industry. Nationalistic films became popular, and movie themes consisting primarily of war and heroism and proved to be successful with Philippine audiences.

The 1950s saw the first golden age of Philippine cinema, with the emergence of more artistic and mature films, and significant improvement in cinematic techniques among filmmakers. The studio system produced frenetic activity in the Philippine film industry as many films were made annually and several local talents started to gain recognition abroad. Award-winning filmmakers and actors were first introduced during this period. As the decade drew to a close, the studio system monopoly came under siege as a result of labor-management conflicts. By the 1960s, the artistry established in the previous years was in decline. This era can be characterized by rampant commercialism in films.

The 1970s and 1980s were considered turbulent years for the Philippine film industry, bringing both positive and negative changes. The films in this period dealt with more serious topics following the Martial law era. In addition, action, western, drama, adult and comedy films developed further in picture quality, sound and writing. The 1980s brought the arrival of alternative or independent cinema in the Philippines.

The 1990s saw the emerging popularity of drama, teen-oriented romantic comedy, adult, comedy and action films.

The Philippines, being one of Asia's earliest film industry producers, remains undisputed in terms of the highest level of theater admission in Asia. Over the years, however, the Philippine film industry has registered a steady decline in movie viewership from 131 million in 1996 to 63 million in 2004.

From a high production rate of 350 films a year in the 1950s, and 200 films a year during the 1980s, the Philippine film industry production rate declined in 2006 to 2007. The 21st century saw the rebirth of independent filmmaking through the use of digital technology and a number of films have once again earned nationwide recognition and prestige.

Influences

In the larger cities, the Philippine performing arts are strongly influenced by the West. Offering symphonies, operas, ballets, and plays. Most of these works originate in others countries while Filipino composers, musicians, and playwrights tend to pattern their efforts on contemporary western models.

Attempts to combine Philippine themes with Western techniques have been made by such troupes as the Bayanihan Dance Comapany, whose repertoire consists of theatricalized versions of folk dance.

4.2 Profile of Client/User

The unique blending of cultures brought from foreign lands, as well as those that existed with the early Filipinos can be characterized in the dances, music and costuming of the early Filipinos. All these have brought about the beauty and charm that uniquely makes up the Culture of the Philippines.

Through the medium of dance, music, songs and costumes, performing arts facilities present these facets of Philippine culture.

The Integrated Performing Arts Guild (IPAG) is a leading Philippine dance and theatre company whose world-acclaimed productions integrate the dance, music, and arts traditions of the South where it is based. IPAG has represented the Philippines in over 100 cities worldwide, and is today Philippine Theatre's most-performed and most-traveled performing group. With a repertoire of over 40 full-length productions performed in extensive tours here and abroad, IPAG has significantly contributed to Philippine National Theater. It is recognized as a leading Philippine Theater company today. Its productions have drawn much acclamation from critics and audiences. IPAG has developed a signature dance theater format based on the pangalay, an indigenous dance form that is the Philippines' closest claim to classical dance. IPAG was founded in 1978 by its present Artistic Director Steven P.C. Fernandez and dance researcher Ligaya Fernando-Amilbangsa. It is recipient of various national awards and endowments that have acknowledged IPAG's contribution to contemporary Philippine Theater. Founding members include Juliet Celeste F. Malit (Choreographer), Ricardo Jorge S. Caluen (Associate Artistic Director), Nenita Cristobal-Eya, and Rafael Mijares (Production Manager). Leading one of the dynamic theater movements in the Philippines, IPAG holds the distinction of being the most-traveled Philippine repertory company today having performed in over 100 cities in Europe, Asia, the Pacific, and North America, besides its wide tours in the Philippines.

4.3 Mission Vision

This Theatre and Performing Arts Facility has its mission to connect to the surrounding community and identify itself as a downtown performing arts center with a greater metropolitan audience. Its purposes are to offer musical performances, plays, dance programs, entertainment, shows and displays of the performing and visual arts through the media of stage, theater and telecommunications. A vision to be an active transmitter of Philippine culture. To embrace the art of the past as well as the art of our time, the Performing Arts Center will support the belief that creativity is a core human characteristic and that the arts hold uniquely transformative potential.

4.4 Organizational Set-Up and Personnel Functions

4.4.1 Theatre Organizational Chart

4.4.2 Designers/Scenographers

Preparation:

Performance:

4.5 Programs and Activities

The relationship between music and human brain function represents a special focus on this project. While innovative and unique, understanding those brain functions enable audiences to appreciate music is only in its infancy. The quality of human life can be substantially enhanced by performances in the context of music and art.

A. Principal Building Utilization:

• Stage performances for dance, theater and music.

• Artists’ training

• Arts education programs for teachers and arts managers

• Rehearsals for stage productions

• Experimental performances

• Artistic collaboration and residency programs

• Seminars and forums on arts and culture

B. Secondary Activities:

• Rehearsals and set‐up for the stage performances;

• Arts congresses and other gatherings;

• Small exhibitions related to the stage performances;

• Technical theater workshops;

• Film events as the need may arise;

• Receptions and other social events;

• Dining and shopping for the public.

4.5.1 Innovations and trends

Building Design and Equipments

Theater Design Criteria

Planning of seating areas for cinemas should involve the following considerations:

Efficiency: unit area per seat

Acoustics

Sound Absorption

Reverberation Time

Optimum reverberation time at midfrequencies [500-1000 Hz] for a theater is 0.8 – 1.2. The recommended background noise criteria for theaters

Noise Barrier

A noise barrier is an exterior structure, designed to protect sensitive land uses from noise pollution. It is commonly also called a soundwall, sound berm, sound barrier and acoustical barrier. Noise barriers are the most effective method of roadway noise mitigation, and mitigation of railway and industrial noise sources (other than cessation of the source activity or use of source controls).

The acoustical science of noise barrier design is a complex task based upon treating a roadway or railway as a line source. Firstly, the theory is based upon blockage of sound ray travel toward a particular receptor; however, diffraction of sound must be addressed. That is to say, sound waves bend (downward) when they pass an edge, such as the apex of a noise barrier. Further complicating matters is the phenomenon of refraction, the bending of sound rays in the presence of an inhomogeneous atmosphere. Wind shear and thermocline produce such inhomogeneities.

The sound sources modelled must include engine ...

This is a preview of the whole essay

The sound sources modelled must include engine noise, tire noise and aerodynamic noise, all of which factors vary by vehicle type and speed. One can begin to visualize the complexity of the resulting computer model, which is based upon dozens of physics equations translated into thousands of lines of computer code.

Some noise barriers consist of a masonry wall or earthwork, or a combination thereof, such as a wall atop an earth berm. Sound abatement walls are commonly constructed using steel, concrete, masonry, wood, plastics, insulating wool, or composites. In the most extreme cases, the entire roadway is surrounded by a noise abatement structure, or dug into a tunnel using the cut-and-cover method. The noise barrier may either be constructed on private land or on a public right-of-way or other public land or other surface such as a marsh, public or private. Since sound levels are measured using a logarithmic scale, a reduction of nine decibels is equivalent to elimination of about 80 percent of the unwanted sound. The bottom line is that noise barriers can be extremely effective tools for noise pollution abatement, although theory also calculates that certain locations and topographies are not suitable for use of any reasonable noise barrier. Clearly cost and aesthetics play a role in the final choice of any noise barrier.

Inergen

Inergen fire suppression system

Inergen is a blend of inert atmospheric gasses that contains 52% nitrogen, 40% argon, 8% carbon dioxide. It is considered a clean agent for use in gaseous fire suppression applications. Inergen does not contain halocarbons, and has no ozone depletion potential. It is non-toxic. Inergen is used at design concentrations of 40-50% to lower the concentration of oxygen to a point that cannot support combustion.

A component of Inergen is carbon dioxide, which allows the human body to adapt to the environment of reduced oxygen that is present after discharge of agent. Discharge of Inergen results in an approximate 3% concentration of carbon dioxide within the space. This directs the human body to take deeper breaths and to make more efficient use of the available oxygen.

The nitrogen and argon components are used to offset the weight of the carbon dioxide, which allows the Inergen blend to have the same density as normal atmosphere. This is done in order to prevent special considerations from needing to be taken in order to prevent agent leakage.

Advantage

1. Inergen does not contain halocarbons. It has no ozone depletion potential and unlike halocarbon agents, does not chemically react with the fire to create acid byproducts.

2. Inergen is safer to use than carbon dioxide in applications where evacuation may not be possible prior to discharge of the agent. Inergen is designed to be breathable after discharge for a short period of time (space evacuation is recommended). Pure carbon dioxide is not.

3. Inergen is non-toxic, and does not create the same health risks as the use of halocarbon agents. In certain concentrations, halocarbon agents can cause heart palpitations.

4. Inergen has the same density as normal atmosphere. No special considerations are needed in order to prevent agent leakage.

5. Inergen does not create a 'fog' during discharge so it will not block views of the exit paths.

Disadvantage

1. Inergen requires more space for storage tanks. Unlike carbon dioxide or halocarbon agents, Inergen agent does not liquify under pressure.

2. Inergen requires that 40-50% of the room atmosphere be replaced with Inergen in a short amount of time. This creates a large amount of pressure, which must be relieved in order to prevent damage to the enclosure.

Sprinkler System

Fire sprinklers are widely recognized as the single most effective method for fighting the spread of fires in their early stages - before they can cause severe injury to people and damage to property.

A wet pipe sprinkler system is a sprinkler system employing automatic sprinkler heads attached to a piping system containing water and connected to a water supply so that water discharges immediately from sprinklers opened by heat from a fire.

Each sprinkler is activated individually when it is heated to its design temperature. Most sprinklers discharge approximately 20-25 gallons per minute (gpm), depending on the system design. Sprinklers for special applications are designed to discharge up to 100 gpm.

Wet pipe sprinkler system

Dry pipe sprinkler system

A dry pipe sprinkler system is a system with automatic sprinkler heads attached to a piping system containing air or nitrogen under pressure. The release of this pressure (as from the opening of a sprinkler) permits the water pressure to open a valve known as a dry pipe valve and the water then flows into the piping system and out of the open sprinkler head.

Dry pipe sprinkler systems are installed in areas where wet pipe systems may be inappropriate such as areas where freezing temperatures might be expected.

Dry pipe sprinkler system

The arrangement of deluge system piping is similar to a wet or dry pipe system with two major differences.

A. Standard sprinklers are used, but they are all open. The activating elements have been removed so that when the control valve is opened water will flow from all of the sprinklers simultaneously and deluge the area with water.

B. The deluge valve is normally closed. The valve is opened by the activation of a separate fire detection system.

Deluge System

Deluge systems are used where large quantities of water are needed quickly to control a fast-developing fire. Deluge valves can be electrically, pneumatically or hydraulically operated.

A pre-action sprinkler system is similar to a deluge sprinkler system except the sprinklers are closed. This type system is typically used in areas containing high value equipment or contents and spaces which are highly sensitive to the effects of accidental sprinkler water discharge. The pre-action valve is normally closed and is operated by a separate detection system.

Activation of a fire detector will open the pre-action valve, allowing water to enter the system piping.

Pre-action sprinkler system

Water will not flow from the sprinklers until heat activates the operating element in individual sprinklers. Opening of the pre-action valve effectively converts the system to a wet pipe sprinkler system.

In a pre-action system the piping is pressurized with air or nitrogen, monitoring of this air pressure provides a means of supervising the system piping. Loss of the supervisory air pressure in the system piping results in a trouble signal at the alarm panel.

Passive Solar Design

Passive solar design refers to the use of the sun's energy for the heating and cooling of living spaces. In this approach, the building itself or some element of it takes advantage of natural energy characteristics in materials and air created by exposure to the sun. Passive systems are simple, have few moving parts, and require minimal maintenance and require no mechanical systems.

Operable windows, thermal mass and thermal chimneys are common elements found in passive design. Operable windows are simply windows that can be opened. Thermal mass refers to materials such as masonry and water that can store heat energy for extended time. Thermal mass will prevent rapid temperature fluctuations. Thermal chimneys create or reinforce the effect hot air rising to induce air movement for cooling purposes.

Wing walls are vertical exterior wall partitions placed perpendicular to adjoining windows to enhance ventilation through windows.

Direct Gain

Direct gain design - A direct gain design collects and stores heat during the day. At night stored heat is radiated into the living spaces.

Figure 1 Direct gain design

The simplest of approaches is a direct gain design. Sunlight is admitted to the space (by south facing glass) and virtually all of it is converted to thermal energy. The walls and floor are used for solar collection and thermal storage by intercepting radiation directly, and/or by absorbing reflected or reradiated energy.

Direct gain interior - A direct gain design with

an interior water wall for heat storage. Heat

stored in the water wall is radiated into the

living space at night.

Figure 2 Direct gain interior

Diffusing glazing materials. Translucent glazing scatters sunlight to all storage surfaces.

Figure 3 Diffusing glazing material

Indirect Gain

This passive solar design approach uses the basic elements of collection and storage of heat in combination with the convection process. In this approach, thermal storage materials are placed between the interior habitable space and the sun so there is no direct heating. Instead a dark colored thermal storage wall is placed just behind a south facing glazing (windows). Sunlight enters through the glass and is immediately absorbed at the surface of the storage wall where it is either stored or eventually conducted through the material mass to the inside space.

An indirect gain design which provides both heating and cooling is the thermal pond approach, which uses water encased in ultraviolet ray inhibiting plastic beds underlined with a dark color, that are placed on a roof. In warm and temperate climates with low precipitation, the flat roof structure also serves directly as a ceiling for the living spaces below thereby facilitating direct transfer of heating and cooling for the spaces below.

Figure 4. Indirect gain Trombe wall stores heat during the day. Excess heat is vented to the interior space. At night Trombe wall vents are closed and the storage wall radiates heat into the interior space.

Figure 5. Indirect gain water wall collects and stores heat during the day. Heat stored in indirect gain water wall is radiated into the living space at night.

Convective Cooling Methods

Convective Cooling Methods are those which use the prevailing winds and natural, gravity-induced convection to ventilate a structure at the appropriate times of the day.

The oldest, straightforward convective method admits cool night air to drive out the warm air. If breezes are predominant, high vents or open windows on the leeward side (away from prevailing breeze) will let the hottest air, located near the ceiling, escape. The cooler night air sweeping in through low open vents or windows on the windward side will replace this hot air and bring relief.

To get the best cooling rates, leeward openings should have substantially larger total area (50% to 100% larger) than those on the windward side of the house.

Figure 6. Locate cool air inlet vent on the building side which receives predominant cool summer breezes.

Figure 7. To aid in natural ventilation, during summer use high ceiling vaults, and thermal chimneys to promote rapid air changes.

Figure 8. To a point, increasing the vent area will increase the airflow rate by natural convection. Turbine vents at the roof peak are one way to enhance airflow and improve the cooling rate. Even gentle breezes flowing up and over the roof peak create an upward suction that draws out warm interior air

Evaporative Cooling Method

Another form of cooling is the Evaporative Method. Evaporative cooling from ponds, water features and "active or mechanical cooling systems is ideal for arid climates where low humidity promotes high evaporation rates.

Figure 9. Evaporative Cooling method

4.5.3.2 Green Roof and Wall System: G-sky

In addition to the beauty and aesthetic value that Green Roofs provides, they also have various other functions, such as...

Energy Savings, Sound Insulation, Heat Island Mitigation, etc.

G-SKY Extensive Green Roof provide all these functions and are Lightweight and Thin.

G-SKY's efficient design makes its maintenance time and costs one third that of competing systems.

Another modular system, the G-Sky is an approximately 12x12" polypropolene panel mounted on steel brackets. These come pre-planted with a proprietary soil mix, filter fabric mesh, and 13 plants per panel. These, like the ELT, can be planted in a random pattern, allowing the understructure to disappear, or to made patterns using the grid modules as bitmaps.

G-sky

“The economic and environmental benefits of a Green Wall- G-sky are many. Energy Savings, CO2 Capture, Building Life Extension, Sound Insulation and Aesthetics!”

4.5.3.3 Shading

South facing glass can be a source of overheating during summer months. The potential for overheating can be controlled by a roof overhang carefully designed to shade the glass during the summer (sun higher in the sky) but not block sunlight during the winter (lower in the sky), and by the use of movable outside shading devices.

Overhangs should be equal in length to roughly one fourth the height of the window opening in southern latitudes and one-half the height of the opening in northern latitudes.

The usefulness of overhangs can be increased if they are constructed so that they are adjustable. Adjustable overhangs can be rolled back to admit sunlight on cold spring days. Trellised overhangs that support deciduous vines are another way to block sunlight in the summer and admit sunlight in early spring. Retractable awnings and adjustable louvers can also be useful shading devices.

Shading of glass to reduce unwanted heat gain is critical. Unprotected glass (Figure 11) is often the greatest source of unwanted heat gain in a home.

Figure 11 Unprotected Glass

Radiant heat from the sun passes through glass and is absorbed by building elements and furnishings, which then re-radiate it. Re-radiated heat has a different wavelength and cannot pass back out through the glass as easily. In most climates, 'trapping' radiant heat is desirable for winter Build more compact shaped buildings with good cross ventilation for summer.

Figure 12. It is important to select a window with a low solar heat gain coefficient and avoid products with a low level of light transmission so that the same type and color of glass could be used on all elevations.

Benefits

Acoustic Ceiling Baffles are good in solving reverberation problems in any large space. Our acoustical ceiling baffles are lightweight; Class A fire-rated and available in various colors and sizes to meet any acoustical needs.

Acoustic Treatment on Theatres

Theatre acoustics are key factors in creating memorable entertainment experiences. Isolating the cinema and theatre from unwanted, disruptive noise is just as vital. Acoustics are typically engaged to also prevent noise and vibration from adjacent spaces, mechanical systems, and the exterior environment from adversely affecting cinema acoustics and theatre acoustics.

Designing a cinema should consider acoustical design, noise control, noise and vibration isolation, mechanical systems noise control and vibration isolation to deliver quality sound.

Materials on acoustic treatment

Acoustic absorber

Soundtrap

The Soundtrap is a broadband absorber with increased absorbsion at the lower frequency range. It can be applied to walls and ceilings.

To make room for and improve the precision of the low range, Subsonic produces this easy-to-apply panel with excellent performance.

It was designed to absorb background noise in back, front or side walls reducing the low energy that is present at excessive levels at the point of hearing, thus lowering unwanted resonances.

Suitable for :

Auditoriums, music rooms, studios, practice rooms, residential.

Acoustic Diffuser

Ceraflector

The Ceraflector acoustic panel (Jocavi) is a multidirectional reflecting panel controlled in 3D.

Built from the finest enamelled porcelain, its modular design makes it unique in the market.

This radial diffusing panel has had its reflecting angles meticulously calculated. The depth factor is logarithmically varied and it is, therefore, an omni directional, three-dimensional panel.

The Ceraflector panel controls primary reflections, fragmenting them in 64 directions with logarithmic depth, using as a basis for calculation the theoretical numerical sequence ratio of the primitive root, giving exceptional diffusion results in all directions and which translates into considerable crispness of sound.

Suitable for :

Auditoriums, music rooms, studios, practice rooms, residential.

Acoustic Bass Trap

Cornerbass

Controlling lows is essential in any music room, especially in the corners where very long waves are generated, that is, low stationary frequencies, which are heard as a "boom", making the low range loose and muddy and disjointed from the rest of the sound spectrum.

This panel, which is extremely efficient at holding back excessive levels of low frequencies, is manufactured with an exclusive production membrane mounted on a tuned box, which gives this box high efficiency ranging from 32Hz to 280Hz. The Cornerbass absorbing panel lessens excessive energy at low frequencies, and its highest absorption coefficient stands at 80 Hz.

The trapezoid shape of this panel makes its presence in the room very discreet, as it is applied in corners, an area that is normally wasted.

Suitable for :

Auditoriums, music rooms, studios, practice rooms, residential.

Acoustic Screen

SonicScreen

The SonicScreen is a superb free standing acoustic screen with a broad bandwidth absorber on one side and a diffuser on the other. This hinged upholstered panel can be positioned and adjusted with a variable depth air cavity to control low frequency problems.

The SonicScreen is designed for difficult to treat rooms in which surface applications is not possible and flexibility is paramount.

Acoustically problematic areas in call centres, offices, cinemas, recording studios, vocal booths listening or performance spaces can easily be tamed with SonicScreen.

Suitable for :

Auditoriums, call centres, music rooms, studios, practice rooms, residential.

4.5.2 CASE STUDIES

Local Case Studies:

Newport Performing Arts Theatre, Resorts World Manila

Newport Performing Arts Theater, showcases the best of in-house productions that can be seen nowhere else. A home to major productions such as Broadway musicals, concerts and pageants, Newport Performing Arts Theater is where the enchantment unfolds.

Cultural Center of the Philippines (Sentrong Pangkultura ng Pilipinas)

The façade of the National Theater is dominated by a two-storey travertine block suspended 12 meters high by deep concave cantilevers on three sides. The rest of the structure is clad in concrete, textured by crushed seashells originally found on the reclamation site. The building is built on a massive podium, and entry is through a vehicular ramp in front of the raised lobby and a pedestrian side entry on its northwest side. In front of the façade and below the ramp, there is an octagonal reflecting pool with fountains and underwater lights. On the main lobby, three large chandeliers hang from the third floor ceiling, each symbolizing the three main geographical divisions of the Philippines: , and .

Foreign Case Studies:

Abu Dhabi Performing Arts Centre by Zaha Hadid Architects

Zaha Hadid described the design of the Performing Arts Centre as “a sculptural form that emerges from a linear intersection of pedestrian paths within the cultural district, gradually developing into a growing organism that sprouts a network of successive branches. As it winds through the site, the architecture increases in complexity, building up height and depth and achieving multiple summits in the bodies housing the performance spaces, which spring from the structure like fruits on a vine and face westward, toward the water.”

Seoul Performing Arts Center by dmp Architects

Korea-based dmp Architects has proposed an iconic building for Seoul Performing Arts Center located in Nodul Island, Seoul, Korea. The goal of the project is to bring a new life to Han River and Nodul Island which has been forgotten by people of Seoul nowaday. A very good design approach of creating a dramatic roof structure has successfully created playful image to the city.

Michael Maltzan Architecture
Mashouf Performing Arts Center
San Francisco State University
San Francisco, California

The building's architecture is defined by an expansive horizontal form and is punctuated by the performance spaces rising above. A distinctive wave design flows along both Lake Merced and Font Boulevards, creating a feeling of movement and reflecting the creative energy housed within. The building will shape SF State's public face along Lake Merced Boulevard and encourage pedestrian activity through interconnected arcades and walkways.

Teatro del Agua (The Water Theatre)- Las Palmas, Canary Islands, Spain
The Water Theatre is part of a master planning of a city designed by Grimshaw. The idea is to couple a series of evaporators and condensers such that the airborne moisture from the evaporators is then collected from the condensers, which are cooled by deep seawater. This method produces large quantities of distilled water from seawater and is almost entirely driven by renewable energy. The building structure is orientated perpendicular to the prevailing wind to obtain a maximum supply of ambient air. The flow rate is controlled by louvres on the leeward side, which also incorporates solar panels to provide heat for the evaporators. As well as serving as a visible engine of sustainability, this structure doubles as an auditorium. The intention is to exploit the natural resources of the island, focusing on its two unique geographic features: steep beaches meaning that the cold water of the deep ocean is close to hand and can be siphoned off for air conditioning, and a steady wind direction that can be harnessed for the production of fresh water.

4.6 Legal Frameworks

4.6.1 Guidelines on Film Production and Exhibition: Public Exhibition, Theaters

All theaters in the Philippines, including mini theaters, shall be registered with the Board of Censors for Motion Pictures annually on or before the first day of July. Theater registration shall indicate the following: seating capacity by sections, (orchestra, balcony and loge, rates of admission, the daily opening time, the number of attraction per program, the number of changes of program per week, the kinds of picture usually exhibited (Filipino, English or Chinese), class of theater (whether first run, second run or third run movie house) and the period of existence and operation as well as the theater owner or operator, the theater manager, booker, projectionist, porters and other employees. A photograph of the theater, at least of postcard size, shall accompany the registration.

Theater owners or operators shall be responsible for developing and maintaining a healthy moral attitude among their patrons and observe at all times the laws governing theater operations and management in general and the film censorship laws, regulation and orders in particular.

Theater owners or operators shall contribute to the intensification of national pride and cultural consciousness among their patrons by allowing more and better booking dates to movies whose themes or subject matters are endowed with positive values and with high artistic qualities. They shall, however, preferably accommodate Filipino folkways, historical heritage and contemporary aspirations.

Movie theater owners or operators are directed to keep the premises of their establishment’s clean and safe at all times. They shall, therefore, provide adequate ventilation, properly functioning toilet facilities, fire prevention equipments and other items and services to insure public welfare.

The closure of movie theater, following any violation of the censorship laws, regulation or orders, as well as the arrest and prosecution of any and all person concerned, along with the outright cancellation, withdrawal and revocation of the permits of the movie involved, may be ordered by the Chairman of the Board of Censors for Motion Pictures, by virtue of the powers vested in the Board under the Letter of Instructions No. 13, dated September 27, 1972.

Bookers, distributors, theater owners or operators, projectionist and other persons responsible for the public exhibitions of motion pictures that are banned, without permits, revoked permits or with objectionable scenes or illegal insertion shall be held legally liable for their acts.

4.6.2 Requirements based on Occupancy: Classification of all buildings by use or occupancy and General Requirements for all occupancies

Group C - Education and Recreation. Group C Occupancies shall be any building used for school or day care purposes more than eight hours per week, involving assemblage for instruction, education, or recreation, and not classed in Group I or in Divisions 1 and 2 of Group H Occupancies.

Group H - Assembly Other Than Group I. Group H Occupancies shall include: Division 1 - Any assembly building with a stage and an occupant load of less than 100 in the building; Division 2 - Any assembly building without a stage and having an occupant load of 300 or more in the building; Division 3 - Any assembly building without a stage and having an occupant load of less than 300 in the building, including such buildings used for school purposes less than eight hours per week; and Division 4 - Stadiums, reviewing stands, amusement park structures not included within Group I or Divisions 1, 2, and 3, Group H Occupancies.

Group I - Assembly Occupant Load 1000 or More. Group I Occupancies shall be any assembly building with a stage and an occupant load of 1000 or more in the building.

4.5.3 Detailed Regulation

Stairs, Exits, and Occupant Loads

(a) General. The construction of stairs, exits, and occupant loads shall conform to requirements for occupants of buildings, reviewing stands, bleachers, and grandstands.

(1) Determination of Occupant Loads. The occupant load permitted in any building or portion thereof shall be determined by dividing the floor area assigned to that use by the square meters or square feet per occupant according generally accepted principles of engineering. The capacity of a building containing mixed occupancies shall be determined by adding the number of occupants of the various parts of the building classified as to Occupancy and Type of Construction.

(2) Exit Requirements. Exit requirements of a building or portion thereof used for different purposes shall be determined by the occupant load which gives the largest number of persons. No obstruction shall be placed the required width of an exit except projections permitted by this code.

(3) Posting of Room Capacity. Any room having an occupant load of more than 50 where fixed seats are not installed, and which is used for classroom, assembly, or similar purpose, shall have the capacity of the room posted in a conspicuous place near the main exit from the room. Approved signs shall be maintained in a legible manner by the owner or his authorized agent, and shall indicate the number of occupants permitted for each room use.

(4) Changes in Elevation. Except in Group A Occupancies, changes in elevation of not less than 30 centimeters (12 inches) along any exit serving a tributary occupant load of 10 or more shall be by means of ramps.

(b) Exits Required

(1) Number of Exits. Every building or usable portion thereof shall have at least one exit. In all occupancies, floors above the first story having an occupant load of more than 10 shall have not less than two exits. Each mezzanine used for other than storage purposes, if greater in area than 185 square meters (2000 square feet), or if more than 18.00 meters (60 feet) in any dimension shall have not less than two stairways to an adjacent floor. Every story or portion thereof, having an occupant load of 500 to 999 shall have not less than three exits. Every story or portions thereof, having an occupant load of 1000 or more shall have not less than four exits. The number of exits required from any story of a building shall be determined by using the occupant loads of floors which exit through the level under consideration as follows: 50 per cent of the occupant load in the first adjacent story above (and the first adjacent story below, when a story below exits through the level under consideration) and 25 per cent of the occupant load in the story immediately beyond the first adjacent story. The maximum number of exits required for any story shall be maintained until egress is provided from the structure. For purposes of this Section, basements or cellars and occupied roofs shall be provided with exits as required for stories. Floors above the second story, basements, and cellars used for other than service of the building shall have not less than two exits.

(2) Width. The total width of exists in meters shall be not less than the total occupant load served divided by 165 (in feet, by 50). Such width of exits shall be divided approximately equally among the separate exits. The total exit width required from any story of a building shall be determined by using the occupant load of that story, plus the percentage of the occupant loads of floors which exit through the level under considerations as follows: 50 per cent of the occupant load in the first adjacent story above (and the first adjacent story below when a story below exits through the level under consideration) and 25 per cent of the occupant load in the story immediately beyond the first adjacent story. The maximum exit width required from any story of a building shall be maintained.

(3) Arrangement of Exits. If only two exits are required they shall be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one-fifth of the perimeter of the area served measured in a straight line between exits. Where three or more exits are required they shall be arranged a reasonable distance apart so that if one becomes blocked others will be available

(4) Distance to Exits. No point in an unsprinkled building shall be more than 45.00 meters (150 feet) from an exterior exit door, a horizontal exit, exit passageway, or an enclosed stairway, measured along the line of travel. In building equipped with a complete automatic fire-extinguishing system the distance from exits may be increased to 60.00 meters (200 feet).

(c) Doors. The provisions herein shall apply to every exit door serving an area having an occupant load more than 10, or serving hazardous rooms or areas.

(1) Swing. Exit doors shall swing in the direction of exit travel when serving any hazardous areas or when serving an occupant load of 50 or more. Double acting doors shall not be used as a part of fire assembly, nor equipped with panic hardware. A double acting door shall be provided with a view panel of not less than 1300 square centimeters (200 square inches).

(2) Type of Lock or Latch. Exit door shall be openable from the inside without the use of a key or any special knowledge or effort: Except, That this requirement shall not apply to exterior exit doors in a Group E or F Occupancy if there is a conspicuous, readily visible and durable sign on or adjacent to the door, stating that the door is to remain unlocked during business hours. The locking device must be of a type that will be readily distinguishable as locked. Flush bolts or surface bolts are prohibited.

(3) Width and Height. Every required exit doorway shall be of a size as to permit the installation of a door not less than 90 centimeters (3 feet) in width and not less than 2.00 meters (6 feet, 7 inches) in height. When installed in exit doorways, exits doors shall be capable of opening at least 90 degrees and shall be so mounted that the clear width of the exitway is not less than 70 centimeters (2 feet, 4 inches). In computing the required exit width, the net dimension of the exitway shall be used.

(4) Door Leaf Width. No leaf an exit door shall exceed 1.20 meters (4 feet) in width.

(5) Special Doors. Revolving, sliding, and overhead doors shall not be used as required exits.

(6) Egress from Door. Every required exit door shall give immediate access to an approved means of egress from the building.

(7) Change in Floor Level at Doors. Regardless of the occupant load, there shall be a floor or landing on each side of and exit door. The floor or landing shall be level with, or not more than 5 centimeters (2 inches) lower than the threshold of the doorway: Except, That in Groups A and B Occupies, a door may open on the top step of a flight of stairs or an exterior landing providing the door does not swing over the top step or exterior landing and the landing is not more than 19 centimeters (7-1/2 inches) below the floor level.

(8) Door Identification. Glass doors shall conform to the requirements specified in Section 10.05.05. Other exit doors shall be so marked that they are readily distinguishable from the adjacent construction.

(9) Additional Doors. When additional doors are provided for egress purposes, they shall conform to all provisions in the following cases: Approved revolving door having leaves which will collapse under opposing pressures may be used in exit situations: Provided, That such doors have a minimum width of 2.00 meters (6 feet, 7 inches); or they are not used in occupancies where exits are required to be equipped with panic hardware; or at least one conforming exit door is located adjacent to each revolving door installed in a building, and the revolving door shall not be considered to provide any exit width.

(d) Corridors and Exterior Exit Balconies. The provisions herein shall apply to every corridor and exterior exit balcony serving as required exit for an occupant load of more than 10.

(1) Width. Every corridor or exterior exit balcony shall be not less in which 1.12 meters (3 feet, 8 inches).

(2) Projections. The required width of corridors and exterior exit balconies shall be unobstructed: Except, That trim, handrails, and doors when fully opened shall not reduce the required width by more than 18 centimeters (7 inches). Doors in any position shall not reduce the required width by more than one-half.

(3) Access to Exits. When more than one exit is required, they shall be so arranged to allow going to either direction from any point in the corridor or exterior exit balcony to a separate exit, except for dead ends permitted.

(4) Dead Ends. Corridors and exterior exit balconies with dead ends are permitted when the dead ends does not exceed 6.00 meters (20 feet) in length.

(5) Construction. Walls and ceilings of corridors shall be not less than one hour fire-resistive construction: Except, That this requirement shall not apply to exterior exit balcony railings, corridors of a one-story building housing a Group E or F Occupancy occupied by one tenant only and which serves an occupant load of 30 less, nor to corridors, formed by temporary partitions. Exterior exit balconies cannot project into an area where protected openings are required.

(6) Openings. Where corridor walls are required to be one-hour fire-resistive construction every interior door opening shall be protected as set forth in generally recognized and accepted requirements for dual purpose fire exit doors. Other interior openings, except ventilation louvers equipped with approved automatic fire shutters shall be 6.3 millimeters (1/4 inch) fixed wire glass set in steel frames. The total area of all openings other than doors, in any portion of an interior corridor wall shall not exceed 25 per cent of the area of the corridor wall of the room which it is separating from the corridor.

(c) Stairways. Every stairway serving any building or portion thereof shall conform to the following requirements of this Code except stairs or ladders used only to attend equipment.

(1) Width. Stairways serving an occupant load of more than 50 shall be not less in width than 1.12 meters (3 feet, 8 inches). Stairways serving an occupant load of 50 less may be 90 centimeters (3 feet) wide. Private stairways serving an occupant load less than 10 may be 75 centimeters (2 feet, 6 inches) wide. Trim and handrails shall not reduce the required width may more than 9 centimeters (3-1/2 inches).

(2) Rise and Run. The rise of every step in a stairway shall not exceed 19 centimeters (7-1/2 inches) and the run shall not be less than 25 centimeters (10 inches). Except as provided under paragraph (d) the maximum variations in the height of risers and the width of treads in any one flight shall be 5 millimeters (3-1/2 inch): Except, That in private stairways serving an occupant load of less than 10, the rise may be 20 centimeters (8 inches) and run may be 23 centimeters (9 inches).

(3) Winding Stairway. In Group A Occupancies and in private stairways in Group B Occupancies, winders may be used if the required width of run is provided at a point not more than 30 centimeters (12 inches) from the side of the stairway where the treads are the narrower, but in no case shall any width of run be less than 15 centimeters (6 inches) at any point.

(4) Circular Stairways. Circular stairs may be used as an exit provided the minimum width of run is not less than 25 centimeters (10 inches). All treads in any one flight between landing shall have identical dimensions within a 5-millimeters (3/16-inch) tolerance.

(5) Landings. Every landing shall have a dimension measured in the direction of travel equal to the width of the stairway. Such dimension need not exceed 1.20 meters (4 feet) when the stair has a straight run. Landings, when provided shall not be reduced in width by more than 9.3 centimeters (3-1/2 inches) by a door when fully open.

(6) Basement Stairways. Where a basement stairway and stairway to an upper story terminate in the same exit enclosure, an approved barrier shall be provided to prevent persons from continuing on into the basement. Directional exit signs shall be provided as specified in this Code.

(7) Distance Between Landings. There shall be not more than 3.65 meters (12 feet) vertically between landings.

(8) Handrails. Stairways shall have handrails on each side, and every stairway required to be more than 3.00 meters (9 feet) in width shall be provided with not less than one intermediate handrail for each 3.00 meters (9 feet of required width. Intermediate handrails shall be spaced approximately equal within the entire width of the stairway. Handrails shall be placed not less than 75 centimeters (2 feet, 6 inches) nor more than 85 centimeters (2 feet, 10 inches) above the nosing of threads, and ends of handrails shall be returned or shall terminate in newel posts or safety terminals: Except, in the following cases: Stairways 1.12 meters (3 feet, 8 inches or less in width and stairway serving one individual dwelling unit in Group A or B Occupancies may have one handrails, except that such stairway open on one or both sides shall have handrails provided on the open side or sides; or stairways having less four than four risers need not have handrails.

(9) Exterior Stairway Protection. All openings in the exterior wall below or within 3.00 meters (10 feet), measured horizontally, of an exterior exit stairway serving a building over two stories in height shall be protected by a self-closing fire assembly having a three-fourths-hour fire-resistive rating: Except, That openings may be unprotected when two separated exterior stairways serve an exterior exit balcony.

(10) Stairway Construction-Interior. Interior stairways shall be constructed as specified in this Code. Where there is enclosed usable space shall be protected on the enclosed side as required for one-hour fire-resistive construction.

(11) Stairway Construction-Exterior. Exterior stairways shall be of incombustible material: Except, That on Type III buildings which do not exceed two stories in height, and are located in less fire-resistive Fire Zones, as well as on Type I buildings, these may be of wood not less than 5 centimeters (2 inches) in nominal thickness. Exterior stairs shall be protected as required for exterior walls due to location on property as specified in this Code. Exterior stairways shall not project into an area where openings are required to be protected. Where there is enclosed usable space under stairs the walls and soffits of the enclosed space shall be protected on the enclosed side as required for one-hour fire-resistive construction.

(12) Stairway to Roof. In every building more than two stories in height, one stairway shall extend to the roof surface, unless the roof has a slope greater than 1 in 3.

(13) Headroom. Every required stairway shall have a headroom clearance of not less than2.00 meters (6 feet, 8 inches). Such clearance shall be established by measuring vertically from a plane parallel and tangent to the stairway tread nosing to the soft above all points.

(f) Ramps. A ramp conforming to the requirements of this Code may be used as an exit. The width of ramps shall be as required for corridors.

(g) Horizontal Exit. If conforming to the provisions of this Code, a horizontal exit may be required exit. All openings in a separation wall shall be protected by a fire assembly having a fire-resistive rating of not less than one hour. A horizontal exit shall lead into a floor area having capacity for an occupant load not less than the occupant load served by such exit. The capacity shall be determined by allowing 0.28 square meter (3 square feet) of net clear floor area per ambulatory occupant and 1.86 square meters (20 square feet) per non-ambulatory occupant. The dispersal area into which the horizontal exit leads shall be provided with exits as required by this Code.

(h) Exit Enclosures. Every interior stairway, ramp, or escalator shall be enclosed as specified in this Code: Except, That in other than Group D Occupancies, an enclosure will not be required for a stairway, ramp, or escalator serving only one adjacent floor and connected with corridors or stairways serving other floors. Stairs in Group A Occupancies need not be enclosed.

(1) Enclosure walls shall be of not less than two-hour fire-resistive construction elsewhere. There shall be no openings into exit enclosures except exit doorways and openings in exterior walls. All exit doors in an exit enclosure shall appropriately be protected.

(2) Stairway and ramp enclosures shall include landings and parts of floors connecting stairway flights and shall also include a corridor on the ground floor leading from the stairway to the exterior of the building. Enclosed corridors or passageways are not required from unenclosed stairways.

(3) A stairway in an exit enclosure shall not continue below the grade level exit unless an approved barrier is provided at the ground floor level to prevent persons from accidentally continuing into the basement.

(4) There shall be no enclosed usable space under stairways in an exit enclosure, nor shall the open space under such stairways be used for any purpose.

(i) Smokeproof Enclosures. A smoke enclosure shall consist of a continuous stairway enclosed from the highest point top the lowest point by walls of two-hour fire-resistive construction. In buildings five stories or more in height, one of the required exits shall be smokeproof enclosure.

(1) Stairs in smokeproof enclosures shall be of incombustible construction.

(2) There shall be no openings in smokeproof enclosure, except exit doorways and openings in exterior walls. There shall be no openings directly into the interior of the building. Access shall be through a vestibule with one wall at 50 per cent open to the exterior and having an exit door from the interior of the building and an exit door leading to the smokeproof enclosure. In lieu of a vestibule, access may be by way of an open exterior balcony of incombustible materials.

(3) The opening from the building to the vestibule or balcony shall be protected with a self-closing fire assembly having one-hour fire-resistive rating. The opening from the vestibule or balcony to the stair tower shall be protected a self-closing fire assembly having a one-hour fire-resistive rating.

(4) A smokeproof of enclosure shall exit into a public way or into an exit passageway leading to a public way. The exit passageway shall be without other openings and shall have walls, floors, and ceilings of two-hour exit resistance.

(5) A stairway in a smokeproof enclosure shall not continue below the grade level exit unless an approved barrier is provided at the ground floor level to prevent persons from accidentally continuing into the basement. chan robles virtual law library

(j) Exit Outlets, Courts, and Passageways. Every exit shall discharge into a public way, exit court, or exit passageway. Every exit court shall discharge into a public way or exit passageway. Passageways shall be without openings other than required exits and shall have walls, floors, and ceilings of the building but shall be not less than one-hour fire-resistive construction.

(1) Width. Every exit court and exit passageway shall be at least as wide as the required total width of the tributary exits, such as required width being based on the occupant load served. The required width of exit courts or exit passageways shall be unobstructed except as permitted in corridors. At any point where the width of an exit court is reduced from any cause, the reduction in width shall be affected gradually by a guardrail at least 90 centimeters (3 feet) in height. The guardrail shall make an angle of not more than 30 degrees with the exit court.

(2) Slope. The slope of exit courts shall not exceed 1 in 10. The slope of exit passageways shall not exceed 1 in 8.

(3) Number of Exits. Every exit court shall be provided with exits as required by this Code.

(4) Openings. All openings into an exit court less than 3.00 meters (10 feet) wide shall be protected by fire assemblies having a three-fourths-hour fire resistive rating: Except, That openings more than 3.00 meters (10 feet) above the floor of the exit court may be unprotected.

(k) Exit Signs and Illumination. Exits shall be illuminated at any time the building is occupied with light having an intensity of not less than one-foot candle at floor level: Except, That for Group A Occupancies the exit illumination shall be provided with separate circuits or separated sources of power (but not necessarily separate from exit signs) when these are required for exit sign illumination.

(l) Aisles. Every portion of every building in which are installed seats, tables, merchandise, equipment, or similar materials shall be provided with aisles leading to an exit.

(1) Width. Every aisle shall be not less than 90 centimeters (3 feet) wide if serving only one side, and not less than 1.07 meters (3 feet, 6 inches) wide if serving both sides. Such minimum width shall be measured at the point farthest from an exit, cross aisles, or foyer and shall be increased by 4 centimeters (1 1/2 inches) for each 1.50 meters (5 feet) in length toward the exit, cross aisle, or foyer. With continental spacing, side aisle shall be not less than 1.12 meters (3 feet, 8 inches) in width.

(2) Exit Distance. In area occupied by seats and in Group H and I Occupancies without seats, the line of travel to an exit door by an aisle shall not be not more than 46.00 meters (150 feet). With standard spacing, as specified in this Code, aisles shall be so located that there will be not more than six intervening seats between any seat and the nearest aisle. With continental spacing, the number of intervening seats may be increased to 29 where exit doors are provided along each aisle of the row of seats at the rate of one pair of exit doors for five rows of seats. Such exit doors shall provide a minimum clear width of 1.75 meters (5 feet, 6 inches).

(3) Cross Aisle. Aisles shall terminate in a cross aisle, foyer, or exit. The width of the cross aisle shall be not less than the sum of the required width of the widest aisle plus 50 per cent of the total required width of the remaining aisle leading thereto. In Groups C, H, and E Occupancies, aisles shall not be provided a dead end greater than 6.00 meters (20 feet) in length.

(4) Vomitories. Vomitories connecting the foyer or main exit with the cross aisles shall have a total width not less than the sum of the required width of the widest aisles leading thereto plus 50 per cent of the total required width of the remaining aisles leading thereto.

(5) Slope. The slope portion of aisles shall not exceed 1 in 8.(m)

Seats
(1) Seat Spacing. With standard seating the spacing of rows of seats from back-to-back shall be not less than 84 centimeters (2 feet, 9 inches), nor shall less than 69 centimeters (2 feet, 3 inches) plus the sum of the thickness of the back and inclination of the back. Automatic or self-rising seats shall be measured in the seat-up position, other seats shall be measured in the seat-down position. With continental seating, the spacing of rows of unoccupied seats shall provide a clear width measured horizontally, as follows: 45 centimeters (18 inches) clear for rows of 18 seats or less; 51 centimeters (20 inches) clear for rows of 35 seats or less; 51 centimeters (21 inches) clear for rows of 45 seats or less; and 56 centimeters (22 inches) clear for rows of 46 seats or more.

(2) Width. The width of any seat shall not less than 45 centimeters (1 foot, 6 inches). (n) Special Hazards

(1) Boiler Rooms. Except in Group A Occupancies, every boiler room and every room containing an incinerator or L-P Gas or liquid fuel-fired equipment shall be provided with at least two means of egress, one of which may be a ladder. All interior openings shall be protected as set by internationally recognized and accepted practice for dual purpose fire exit doors.

(2) Cellulose Nitrate Handling. Film laboratories, projection rooms, and nitro-cellulose processing rooms shall have not less than two exits.

(o) Reviewing Stands, Grandstands, and Bleachers

(1) Height of Stands. Stands employing combustible framing shall be limited to 11 rows or 2.70 meter (9 feet) in height.

(2) Design Requirements. The minimum unit live load for reviewing stands, grandstands, and bleachers shall be 488 kilograms per square meter (100 pounds per square foot) of horizontal projection for the structure as a whole. Seat and footboards shall be 178.5 kilograms per linear meter (120 pounds per linear foot). The sway force, applied to seats, shall be 35.7 kilograms per linear meter (24 pounds per linear foot) parallel to the seats and 14.8 kilograms per linear meter (10 pounds per linear foot) perpendicular to the seats. Sway forces need not be applied simultaneously with other lateral forces.

(3) Spacing of Seats

(3.1) Row Spacing. The minimum spacing of rows of seats measured from back-to-back shall be: 55 centimeters (22 inches) for seats without backrests in open air standards; 76 centimeters (30 inches) for seats with backrests; and 84 centimeters (33 inches) for chair seating. There shall be a space of not less than 30 centimeters (12 inches) between the back of each seat and front of the seat immediately behind it.

(3.2) Rise Between Rows. The maximum rise from one row of seats to the next shall not exceed 40 centimeters (16 inches).

(3.3) Seating Capacity. For determining the seating capacity of a stand, the width of any seat shall be not less than 45 centimeters (18 inches) nor more than 48 centimeters (19 inches).

(3.4) Number of Seats Between Aisles. The number of seats between any seats and an aisle shall not be greater than 15 for open air stands with seats without backrests; 9 for open air stands with seats having backrest in buildings, and 6 for seats with backrest in building.

(4) Aisles

(4.1) Aisles Required. Aisles shall be provided in all stands: Except, That aisles may be omitted when all the following conditions exists: Seats are without backrest; the rise from row to row does not exceed 30 centimeters (12 inches) per row; the number of rows does not exceed 11 in height; the top seating board is not over 3.00 meters (10 feet) above grade; and first seating board is not more than 50 centimeters (20 inches) above grade.

(4.2) Obstructions. No obstruction shall be placed in the required width of any aisle or exitway.

(4.3) Stairs Required. When an aisle is elevated more than 20 centimeters (8 inches) above grade, the aisle shall be provided with a stairway or ramp whose width is not less than the width of the aisles.

(4.4) Dead End. No vertical aisle shall have a dead and more than 16 rows in depth regardless of the number of exits required.

(4.5) Width. Aisles shall have a minimum width of 1.07 meters (3 feet, 6 inches).

(5) Stairs and Ramps. The requirements in this Code shall apply to all stairs and ramps except for portions that pass through the seating area.

(5.1) Stair Rise and Run. The maximum rise of treads shall not exceed 20 centimeters (8 inches) and the minimum width of the run shall be 28 centimeters (11 inches). The maximum variations in the width of treads in any one flight shall be not more than 5 millimeters (3/16 inch) and the maximum variation in the height of two adjacent rises shall not exceed 5 millimeters (3/16 inch).

(5.2) Ramp Slope. The slope of ramp shall be of approved nonslip material.

(5.3) Handrails. A ramp with a slope exceeding 1 in 10 shall have handrails. Stairs for stands shall have handrails. Handrails shall conform to the requirements of this Code.

(6) Guardrails

(6.1) Guardrails shall be required in all locations where the top of seat plank is more than 1.20 meters (4 feet) above the grade and at the front of stands elevated more than 60 centimeters (2 feet) above grade. Where only sections of stands are used, guardrails shall be provided as required in this Code.

(6.2) Railings shall be 1.07 meters (3 feet, 6 inches) above the rear of a seat plank or 1.07 meters (3 feet 6 inches) above the rear of the steps in an aisle when the guardrail is parallel and adjacent to the aisle: Except, That the height may be reduced to 90 centimeters (3 feet) for guardrails located in front of the grandstand.

(6.3) A midrail shall be placed adjacent to any seat to limit the open distance above the top of any part of a seat to 3.00 meters (10 feet) where the seat is at the extreme end or at the extreme rear of the bleachers of grandstand. The intervening space shall have one additional rail midway in the opening: Except, That railings may be omitted when stands are placed directly against a wall or fence giving equivalent protection; stairs and ramps shall be provided with guardrails. Handrails at the front of stands and adjacent to an aisle shall be designed at resist a load of 74 kilograms per linear meter (50 pounds per linear foot) applied at the top rail. Other handrails shall be designed at resist a load of 9 kilograms (20 pounds).

(7) Footboards. Footboards shall be provided for all rows of seats above the third row, or beginning at such point where the seating plank is more than 60 centimeters (2 feet) above grade.

(8) Exits

(8.1) Distance to Exit. The line of travel to an exit shall be not more than 45.00 meters (150 feet). For stands with seats without backrests this distance may be measured by direct line from a seat to the exit from the stand.

(8.2) Aisle Used as Exit. An aisle may be considered as only one exit unless it is continuous at both ends to a legal building exit or to a safe dispersal area.

(8.3) Two Exits Required. A stand with the first seating board not more than 50 centimeters (20 inches) above grade of floor may be considered to have two exits when the bottom of the stands is open at both ends. Every stand or section of a stand within a building shall have at least two means of egress when the stand accommodates more than 50 persons. Every open air stand having seats without backrest shall have at least two means of egress when the stand accommodates more than 300 persons.

(8.4) Three Exits Required. Three exits shall be required for stands within a building when there are more than 300 occupants within a stands, and for open air stands with seats without backrests where a stand or section of a stand accommodates more than 1000 occupants.

(8.5) Four Exits Required. Four exits shall be required when a stand or section of stand accommodates more than 1000 occupants. Except, That for an open air stand with seats without backrest four exits need not be provided unless there are accommodations for more than 3000 occupants.

(8.6) Width. The total width of exits in meters shall be not less than the total occupant load served divided by 165 (by 50 in feet): Except, that for open air stands with seats without backrests the total width of exits in meters shall be not less than the total occupant load served divided by 500 (150 in feet) when exiting by stairs, and divided by 650 (by 200 in feet) when exiting by ramps or horizontally. When both horizontal and stair exits are used, the total width of exits shall be determined by using both figures as applicable. No exit shall be less than 1.07 meters (42 inches) in width. Exits shall be arranged a reasonable distance apart. When but two exits are provided, they shall be spaced not less than one-fifth of the perimeter apart.

(9) Securing of Chairs. Chairs and benches used on raised stands shall be secured to the platform upon which they are placed: Except, That when less than 25 chairs are used upon a single raised platform the fastening of seats to the platform may be omitted. When more than 500 loose chairs are used in connection with athletic events, chairs shall be fastened together in groups of not less than three, and shall be tied or staked to the ground.

(10) Safe Dispersal Area. Each safe dispersal area shall have at least two exits. If more than 6000 persons are to be accommodated within such an area, there shall be a minimum of three exits, and for more than 9000 persons there shall be a minimum of four exits. The aggregate clear width of exits from a safe dispersal area shall be determined on the basis of not less than one exit unit 56 centimeters (22 inches) for each 500 persons to be accommodated and no exit shall be less than 1.12 meters (44 inches) in width. Exits shall be a reasonable distance apart but shall be spaced not less than one-fifth of the perimeter of the area apart from each other.

Stages and Platforms

(a) Stage Ventilators. There shall be one or more ventilators constructed of metal or other incombustible material near the center and above the highest part of any working stage raised above the stage roof and having a total ventilation area equal to at least five per cent of the floor area within the stage walls. The entire equipment shall conform to the following requirements:

(1) Opening Action. Ventilators shall open by spring action or force of gravity sufficient to overcome the effects of neglect, rust, dirt, or expansion by heat or warning of the framework.

(2) Glass. Glass, if used in ventilators, must be protected against falling on the stage. A wire screen, if used under the glass, must be so placed that if clogged it cannot reduce the required ventilating area of interfere with the operating mechanism or obstruct the distribution of water from the automatic fire-extinguishing systems.
(3) Design. Ventilators, penthouses, and supporting framework shall be designed in accordance with this Code.

(4) Automatic Openings. Each ventilator shall be arranged to open automatically after the outbreak of fire by the use of an approved automatic closing device as defined in this Code. The fusible link and operating cable shall hold each door closed against a minimum 13.5-kilogram (30-pound) counterforce exerted by springs or counterweights. This minimum counterforce shall be exerted on each door through its entire arc of travel and for a minimum 115 degrees. A manual control shall be provided.
(5) Spring Actuations. Springs, when employed to actuate ventilator doors, shall be capable of maintaining full required tension indefinitely. Springs shall not be stressed more than 50 per cent of their rated capacity and shall not be located directly in the air stream, nor exposed to the elements.

(6) Location of Fusible Links. A fusible link shall be placed in the cable control system on the underside of the ventilator at or above the roof line, and shall be so located as not to be affected by the operation of fire-extinguishing systems.
(7) Control. Remote, manual, or electrical control shall provide for both opening and closing of the ventilator doors for periodic testing and shall be located at a point on the stage designated by the Building Official. When remote control of ventilator is electrical, power failure shall not affect its instant operation in the event of fire. Hand winches may be employed to facilitate operation of manually controlled ventilators.

(8) Curb Construction. Curbs shall constructed as required for the roof.

(b) Gridirons

(1) Gridirons, fly galleries, and pin-rails shall be constructed of incombustible materials and fire protection of steel and iron may be omitted. Gridirons and fly galleries shall be designed to support a live load of not less than 112 kilograms per square meter (75 pounds per square foot). Each loft block well shall be designed to support 37.2 kilograms per linear meter (250 pounds per linear foot) and the block well shall be designed to support the aggregate weight of all the loft block well served. The head block well must be provided with an adequate strongback of lateral brace to offset torque.

(2) The main counterweight sheave beam shall be designed to support a horizontal and vertical uniformly distributed live load sufficient to accommodate the weight imposed by the total number of loft blocks in the gridiron. The sheave blocks shall be designed to accommodate the maximum load for the loft blocks or head blocks served with a safety factor of five.

(c) Rooms Accessory to Stage. In buildings having a stage, the dressing room sections, workshops, and storerooms shall be located on the stage side of the proscenium wall and shall be separated from each other and from the stage by not less than a One-Hour Fire-Resistive Occupancy Separation.

(d) Prosceniums Walls. A stage shall be completely separated from the auditorium by a proscenium wall of not less than two-hour incombustible construction. The proscenium wall shall extend not less than 1.20 meters (4 feet) above the roof over the auditorium. Proscenium walls may have, in addition to the main proscenium opening at the orchestra pit level and not more than two openings at the stage floor level, each of which shall be not more than 2.00 square meters (25 square feet) in area. All openings in the proscenium wall of a stage shall be protected by a fire assembly having a one and one-half-hour fire-resistive rating. The proscenium opening, which shall be the main opening for viewing performances, shall be provided with a self-closing fire-resistive curtain according to generally recognized and accepted engineering practices.

(e) Stage Floors. The Type of Construction for stage floors shall depend upon the requirement based on the Type of Occupancy and the corresponding fire-resistive requirements. All parts of the stage floor shall be designed to support not less than 185 kilograms per square meter (125 pounds per square foot). Openings through stage floors shall be equipped with tight-fitting trap doors.

(f) Platforms. The Type of Construction for platforms shall depend upon the requirements based on the Type of Occupancy and corresponding fire-resistive requirements. Enclosed platforms shall be provided with one or more ventilators conforming to the requirements of stage ventilators: Except, That the total area shall be equal to five per cent of the area of the platform. When more than one ventilators is provided, they shall be so spaced as to provide proper exhaust ventilation. Ventilators shall not be required for enclosed platforms having a floor area of 45.00 square meters (500 square feet) or less.

(g) Stage Exits. At least one exit not less than 90 centimeters (3 feet) wide shall be provided from a passageway not less than 90 centimeters (3 feet) in width to a street or exit court. An exit stair not less than 75 centimeters (2 feet, 6 inches) wide shall be provided for egress from each fly gallery. Each tier of dressing rooms shall be provided with at least two means of egress each not less than 75 centimeters (2 feet, 6 inches) wide and all such stairs shall be constructed as specified in this Code. The stairs required in this Subsection need to be enclosed.

FIRE CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES

SECTION 4. Applicability of the Code

The provisions of the Fire Code shall apply to all persons and all private and public buildings, facilities or structures erected or constructed before and after its effectivity.

SECTION 5. Grace Period

The owner, administrator or occupant of buildings or structures existing at the time of the effectivity of the Fire Code is given two (2) years to comply with the provisions thereof on fire safety constructions and on protective and warning systems. However, the Director General of the Integrated National Police may prescribe a shorter period depending upon the degree of hazard to be recorded and the cost and extent of the work to be done

SECTION 8. Inspections, Safety Measures, Fire Safety, Constructions, and Protective and/or Warning Systems.

As may be defined and provided in the Rules and Regulations, owners, administrators or occupants of buildings, structures and their premises or facilities and other responsible persons shall be required to comply with the following, as may be appropriate:

Inspection Requirement A fire safety inspection shall be conducted by the Director General or his duly authorized representative as prerequisite to the grants of permits and/or licenses by local governments and other government agencies concerned, for the:

Use or occupancy of buildings, structures, facilities or their premises including the installation or fire protection and fire safety equipment, and electrical system in any building structure or facility;
Storage, handling and/or use of explosives or of combustible, flammable, toxic and other hazardous materials;

Provision on Fire Safety Construction, Protective and Warning System Owners, occupants or administrator or buildings, structures and their premises or facilities, except such other buildings or structures as may be exempted in the rules and regulations to be promulgated under Section 6 hereof, shall incorporate and provide therein fire safety construction, protective and warning system, and shall develop and implement fire safety programs, to wit:

Fire protection features such as sprinkler systems, hose boxes, hose reels or standpipe systems and other firefighting equipment;
Fire Alarm systems;
Fire walls to separate adjoining buildings, or warehouses and storage areas from other occupancies in the same building;
Provisions for confining the fire at its source such as fire resistive floors and walls extending up to the next floor slab or roof, curtain boards and other fire containing or stopping components;
Termination of all exits in an area affording safe passage to a public way or safe dispersal area;
Stairway, vertical shafts, horizontal exits and other meals of egress sealed from smoke and heat;
A fire exit plan for each floor of the building showing the routes from each other room to appropriate exits, displayed prominently on the door of such room;
Self-closing fire resistive doors leading to corridors;
Fire dampers in centralized air-conditioning ducts;
Roof vents for use by fire fighters; And
Properly marked and lighted exits with provision for emergency lights to adequately illuminate exit ways in case of

SECTION 9. Prohibited Acts. The following are declared as prohibited act and omission.

Obstructing or blocking the exit ways or across to buildings clearly marked for fire safety purposes, such as but not limited to aisles in interior rooms, any part of stairways, hallways, corridors, vestibules, balconies or bridges leading to a stairway or exit of any kind, or tolerating or allowing said violations
Constructing gates, entrances and walkways to buildings components and yards which obstruct the orderly and easy passage of fire fighting vehicles and equipment
Prevention, interference or obstruction of any operation of the Fire Service, or of duly organized and authorized fire brigades;
Obstructing designated fire lanes or access to fire hydrants

e) Overcrowding or admission of persons beyond the authorized capacity in movie houses, theaters, coliseums, auditoriums or other public assembly buildings, except in other assembly areas on the ground floor with open sides or open doors sufficient to provide safe exits;

f) Locking fire exits during period when people are inside the building

g) Prevention or obstruction of the automatic closure of fire doors or smoke partitions or dampers;

h) Use of fire protective of firefighting equipment of the Fire Service other than for firefighting except in other emergencies where their use are justified

i) Giving false or malicious fire alarms;

j) Smoking in prohibited areas as may be determined by Fire Service, or throwing of cigars, cigarettes, burning objects in places which may start or cause fire

k) Abandoning or leaving a building or structure by the occupant or owner without appropriate safety measures

l) Removing. destroying, tampering or obliterating any authorized mark, seal, sign or tag posted or required by the Fire Service for fire safety in any building, structure or processing equipment; and

m) Use of jumpers or tampering with electrical wiring or overloading the electrical system beyond its designated capacity or such other practices that would tend to undermine the fire safety features of the electrical systems.

NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES

SECTION 401. Types of Construction

Type III – shall be of masonry and wood construction. Structural elements may be of any of the materials permitted by this Code provided, that the building shall be one-hour fire-resistive throughout. Exterior walls shall be of incombustible fire-resistive construction.

Type IV – shall be steel, iron, concrete or masonry construction and walls, ceiling and permanent partitions shall be of incombustible fire-resistive construction except, that permanent non-bearing partitions of one-hour fire-resistive construction may use fire-retardant treated wood within framing assembly.

SECTION 402. Changes in Types

No change shall be made in the type o construction of any building which would place the building in a different sub-type or type of construction unless such building is made to comply with the requirements for such sub-type of construction. Except, when the changes is approved by the Building Official upon showing that the new construction is less hazardous, based on life and fire risk, than the existing construction.

SECTION 403. Requirements on Type of Construction

The following standards are prescribed:

Fire Resistive Standards

Exterior bearing and non-bearing bearing walls of Types II and III Construction shall have one hour fire-resistive rating, while those of Types IV and V shall have four-hour fire-resistive rating.
Interior bearing walls, permanent partitions, floors, roofs of Types II, III and IV Construction shall have one-hour fire-resistive rating while those of Type V shall have three-hour fire-resistive rating for bearing walls and one-hour fire-resistive rating for vertical openings, floors and roofs.
Structural frames of Types II and III Construction shall have one-hour fire-resistive rating, while those of Type IV shall have two-hour fire-resistive rating and those of Type V shall have three-hour fire-resistive rating.
Exterior doors and windows shall have one-hour fire-resistive rating for all Types.

Interior Wall an Ceiling Finishes

Finishes for interior walls and ceilings of any building shall be classified according to their flame-spread characteristic using generally accepted engineering standards. The smoke density shall not be greater than that obtained from burning of untreated wood under similar conditions when tested in accordance with the “Tunnel Test” in the way intended for use. The products of combustion shall be no more toxic than the burning of untreated wood under similar conditions. These finishes include: interior wainscoting, paneling, or other finish applied structurally or for decoration, acoustical correction, frames and trims of doors and windows, surface insulation or similar purposes.
Requirements for flame-spread characteristics of finishes shall not apply to frames and trim of doors and windows and to materials which are less than 1.00 millimeter in thickness cemented to the surface of walls and ceilings.
Materials required to be flame-spread proofed shall be treated with a flame-retardant having a flame-spread of fifty (50) or less determined by the “Tunnel Test”.

Standards for materials use in structural framework, exterior walls and openings, floors, exits, stairs and roofs shall be governed by the pertinent provision of the Fire Code of the Philippines.

SECTION 603. Fire Resistive Standards

All materials of construction and type materials and assemblies or combinations thereof shall conform to the following fire-resistive ratings:

Table 4. Fire Resistive Standards for materials for construction

SECTION 604. Fire-Resistive Regulations

The Secretary shall prescribe standards and promulgate rules and regulations on the testing of construction materials fro flame-spread characteristics, tests on fire damages, fire tests of building construction and materials, door assemblies and tinclad fire doors and window assemblies, the installation of fie doors and windows and smoke and fire detectors for fire protective signaling system, application and use of controlled interior finish, fire-resistive protection for structural members, fire-resistive walls and partitions, fire-resistive floor or roof ceiling, fire-resistive assemblies for protection of openings and fire-retardant roof coverings.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Noise barrier, Sept 12 2008

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inergen, Sept 13 2008

http://www.firesystems.net/installation/sprinkler-systems.htm Sept 30 2008

http://www.azsolarcenter.com/technology, Sept. 2 2008

http://www.greenrooftops.com, Sept 24 2008