Usine C is a creative centre, a research lab and a venue created for the theatre group Carbone 14. The space is dedicated to the exploration of the merging fields of theatre, contemporary electronic arts, and media performance. The centre was created in a refurbished industrial plant, from which it draws its name Usine C. The most important challenge was to meet the needs of a wide variety of users, presenters, disciplines and functions, all within a very tight budget.
Outstanding features
The building offers a variety of functions: flexible performance venue, rehearsal studio, other stage related service areas, audio lab, video post-production studio, graphic design studio, screening room, café-restaurant, offices for Carbone 14 and other cultural organizations in the fields of electronic and media arts.
The flexible performance space is equipped with a unique, very flexible rigging system. The system combines standard equipment (10 variable speed battens) and non conventional specifically developed for the project (3 motorized catwalks and 12 mobile hang structures) all computer-controlled.
With the use of an air cushion system, the seating can easily be moved and configured in a variety of layouts.
With a wealth of imagination, the venue harmoniously merges with the industrial environment, delivered at an exceptionally low cost of C$ 82 per square foot.
Mandate
Feasibility Study
Definition of the design criteria, design of the theatre, rehearsal studio, audio lab and post-production studio
Design of all technical infrastructures and, all theatrical and audio-video equipment systems
Follow ups during the construction: theatre design, theatrical equipment systems and audiovisual
