Theater Design and Construction Key Terms

Save time and money by learning theater design and construction key terms

By Trish Popovitch
Movie theater construction begins with a basic understanding of theater design and construction key terms. A lot of time and money is saved by taking the time to get a handle on the basic language of movie theater design.

Unlike home theater design, the commercial theater is more standardized, less custom and restricted by architecture and economics. Basic terminology is a must for making decisions that suit your budget. When considering commercial movie theater construction begin with the following:
  1. Know the different types of equipment involved in custom theater designs.
  2. Realize the wealth of technical terminology surrounding theatre construction.
  3. Recognize basic key terms associated with furniture and layout of theaters.

 

Understand the terminology behind the commercial theater's technical equipment

If hiring a theater designer for your project is out of the budget, concentrate on teaching yourself the key terms and equipment necessary for cinema viewing. This will save time and allow you to make small adjustments and repairs without having to call in the experts. Knowing what you need and what it is called is the first step in equipping a theater.
Try: Cinema Equipment Sales of California offers detailed technical descriptions and requirements for the commercial theater focusing on sound equipment. Another commercial site, Dolby Laboratories, offers a glossary of cinema and film terminology that can provide a starting point for further research.

Learn cinema theater construction technical terminology to save money

A movie theater construction company will cost money and will represent a large portion of your budget. Understanding the architectural and construction terminology used by experts will make communication easier for you. A little basic knowledge on industry lingo also allows you to say what you want as well as what you don't want in your commercial theater design and construction. Look over websites that offer industry information and theater construction terms to get started.
Try: TopFloorStore has a very detailed glossary of commercial construction terms that apply to any construction job and will help you better understand the language of contractors and consultants. AlphaDictionary.com has a great array of construction, design and architecture glossaries that will help familiarize you with the general terms used in constructing your commercial theater building.

Consider the other terms and components involved in movie theater design

Knowing the difference between a wall sconce, an over head, or recessed lighting and its placement is essential to the perfect theater design layout. Learn the key types of fixtures, furniture and fitting involved in outfitting a theater and the language associated with them. This will help with producing a budget and searching for the pieces that best suit your aesthetic and layout needs.
Try: Cinema Consultants is a great reference website that offers definition for many of the lighting and fixture types available on the market today. Universal Cinema Services has a simple list of basic equipment on their website that covers everything from screens to popcorn dispensers to help you become familiar with both language and need.

 

  • If you are still in the movie theater theory stage, consider searching the web for blogs and home pages that feature completed projects to give you a better idea of layout and put your newly acquired terminology into a practical application.