Hancher Auditorium wins IALD Award of Excellence

University of Iowa, Hancher Auditorium, Iowa City IA, Pelli Clarke Pelli. © Jeff Goldberg/Esto

CBBLD is proud to announce that their lighting design for Hancher Auditorium at the University of Iowa has been honored with a 2017 IALD Award of Excellence. Francesca Bettridge, Michael Hennes and Nira Wattanachote, CBBLD design team leaders on the project, received the award at the 34th Annual IALD Awards Dinner in Philadelphia, PA.

One awards judge called the new performing arts center “a beautiful, elegant [lighting] solution for a theater design, seamlessly blending with the architecture.” Another judge further commended CBB’s lighting design, saying “Wonderful compositions, layers of light, commitment to concept, and energy savings.  This is a space that celebrates anticipation.” 

The University of Iowa’s Hancher Auditorium replaces a beloved institution destroyed by flooding. Shown above: monumental custom fixtures create an awe-inspiring ceiling in the performance hall, while an ingenious lighting scheme at balcony fronts makes the house sparkle and glow. The lighting celebrates a valued facility’s rebirth and provides a cultural hub that exceeds all expectations.