Temporary auditorium Universiteit Antwerpen
Challenge
During renovation work the ceiling of the large auditorium at Drie Eiken Campus in Wilrijk incurred heavy damage just a few weeks before the start of the academic year. To ensure business as usual, the University of Antwerp was forced to take stock and seek a quick, efficient solution.
Solution
Within three weeks, Veldeman constructed a ready-to-use, temporary auditorium in a meadow just 100m away from the university building. A 1,200 m² TFS structure was subdivided into a large and small auditorium, entrance vestibule and catering space. The large auditorium seated 600 students, and the smaller one 180. The so-called ‘tentorium’ was equipped with a self-supporting floor system. Upon this tiered tribunes, chairs and folding tables were placed, just as in a real auditorium. A plug socket was provided at each seat for students to use their laptops or other devices. Comfort was paramount too: an insulated structure was built with heating so lectures could be attended and followed in comfort during cold weather. Various pathways were constructed outside, as well as a covered washroom facility. Veldeman also provided carpet tiles, power supply from the main building to the auditorium, power distribution within the auditorium, indoor & outdoor lighting and fire detection. The intention was for the temporary auditorium to be in use for 9 months.
