Watermark Community Church
Chapel
Dallas, Texas
Project Type: New Construction
Seat Count: 350
Opening: 2010
Architect: Omniplan
AD Scope: Acoustics, Room Design Assistance,
Audio, Video, Lighting
Related projects
Interim Worship Center
Multipurpose Space
The 350-seat chapel that is part of Phase 3a of Watermark's master building plan moves them closer to completing their campus vision. The beautiful floor-to-ceiling windows let in a lot of light (when the shades are open) and could have also let in a lot of sound, as it faces the interstate in the middle of Dallas, but Acoustic Dimensions worked with Omniplan to specify windows that would minimize this intrusive noise. Also, a conscious effort was made to hide the technology used to maintain the serene and natural feel of the room. Interesting features of the room include the remote control candles that line the walls, windows that wrap all the way around the top of the room and exposed-beam ceiling.
The technical systems were designed to blend within the room, yet remain functional. Column speakers are exposed at the front of the room but look natural with the exposed concrete columns. Theatrical lights and projection screens were carefully coordinated with the wood beams at the roof level to limit their visual impact. The projector and control booths are located on a balcony level to keep the main floor free for wedding shots and to maximize the seat count.
In addition to the sound isolation work noted, the acoustics of the room needed to provide a warm and intimate sound to match the architecture. The performance of the speakers and shape of the room eliminated the need for acoustical treatments on the walls that would have compromised the architecture.
