The new National Opera House of Hellas

Abstract

Since its opening back in 2017, the new Hellenic National Opera House and National Library Complex has become one of Hellas’s most iconic 21st century cultural landmarks. The entire cultural complex incorporates a variety of performing art venues such as, the main opera-concert hall (1400 seats), a multipurpose hall (400 seats), choir and orchestra rehearsal rooms, warm up rooms for individual musicians, as well as various ballet and dance rehearsing areas. Due to the topnotch acoustic specifications and the demanding completion schedule the resolution of the acoustic design required proficient, yet realistic, construction methods that could be implemented efficiently in practice. In the present paper the authors provide a detailed description about their pivotal design and construction decisions, which shaped the acoustic outcome as experienced today. The narrative initiates back in 2007 when the authors firm commenced their work with the noise mapping of the -at the time- future building site (upon which the soundproofing of the entire complex was based). The discussion continues with the acoustical challenges faced including also a practical guide, related to acoustics, for developing engineers. The work culminates by emphasizing the crucial role of a qualified acoustic professional, with architectural and engineering expertise, both characteristics required, in order to effectively orchestrate and supervise the construction of such projects. The discourse engages experiences both from the authors 50-years portfolio in similar acoustic projects, as well as from the development of the new cultural complex and their productive collaboration with JV Impregilo-Terna, that brought this magnificent project meticulously into life.