National Opera House

Henning Larsen

This exciting new opera house achieves high levels of acoustic performance and visitor comfort. Our specialist consulting team carried out simulations of air movement, comfort and vibration in the 1,400 seat auditorium using advanced CFD modelling.

Particular challenges included a 35m cantilever roof as well as a number of aerodynamic issues. We investigated vibrations of the auditorium cantilevering balconies under crowd loading - including rhythmic clapping – and tested a range of diffusers, which provide a balance between the volume of acoustic air delivery. We also worked on the co-ordination of technical installations within the in-situ concrete superstructures.

The Danish National Opera House was the winner of the 2005 BEX Award for Excellence in Structural Engineering.