Sophie Norris: Wyly Theatre Structure and Materialty

Unconventional structure, with no interior or corner columns, allows for the theatre flexibility, as well as its transparency and verticality.
The tower rests on six perimeter super columns, four of which are dramatically inclined, and a perimeter shear wall.
A belt truss that spans from levels 4 through 7, augmented by a series of smaller interior trusses, completes the building's frame.
Three walls of glass surround the performance chamber
The chambers ceiling accommodates catwalks and equipment for lighting, sound, and rigging.
To accommodate for acoustical energy, acoustical reflectors were installed, smooth fiberglass boards curved to help distribute sound evenly to the seating below (also applied to the fly-space walls).
Pneumatic gaskets, inflated by a compressor when the doors close, help mitigate exterior noise penetration.
Black out blinds that can be opened or closed for performances allows the space to be suffused with ambient light and gives the option of having the Dallas skyline as a backdrop.
Fluorescent lights hang vertically above the lobby, while a chain link fabric covers the magnetised walls.
The upper portion of the building is clad in pre-fabricated aluminum panels with random repetitions of vertical venetians, creating a textured effect. The aluminum tubes range in size from 1.5 to 5 inches in diameter.
Poured concrete walls
recycled-plastic polyboard for the theatre's floor, in anticipation of hard wear and quick replacement.