The 2024 edition of the annual Norwegian Film Festival in Haugesund stood out from previous years. The festival’s longtime venue, the Edda Kino cinema complex – originally built in 1978 – had undergone a renovation by the architecture firm Arkipelet. As part of the transformation, two new premium cinema halls, Hall 6 and Hall 7, were inaugurated.

In an effort to minimise the need for future renovations, all materials and products selected for the interior design of the cinema halls had to have a long service life. Rockfon Color-all acoustic ceiling tiles and Rockfon Canva Wall panels a were installed throughout both spaces to optimise the cinema hall acoustics.

Cinema Design with a Range of Atmospheres

The Edda Kino cinema complex is a cherished landmark in Haugesund’s city centre. To preserve its character while modernising its offerings, it was essential for the two new halls to blend seamlessly with the existing structure. At the same time, the expansion provided an opportunity to introduce greater diversity in spaces for film screenings and events.

"When we established an overall plan for the interior design, the idea was to give the two halls different identities so that each offers a unique experience", explains Arkipelet interior architect Irene Birkeland.

Both cinema halls offer a luxurious atmosphere. Hall 6 features 106 VIP recliners in varied loveseat and double-arm configurations. Warm brown hues throughout the space create a sophisticated yet relaxed setting. Rockfon Color-all acoustic ceiling tiles in Charcoal form a deep black suspended ceiling that offers the highest level of acoustic control, Class A. With just four percent light reflection, the ceiling helps achieve the optimal lighting conditions for film screenings.

In the 116-seat Hall 7, a selection of cognac-coloured faux-leather recliners, gliders, and daybeds is set against rich red tones, creating a space that can be adapted for different atmospheres. This hall also features Rockfon Color-all in the Charcoal shade, a popular choice for cinema hall design.

Durable Cinema Design for a Long Lifespan

The walls, like the ceilings, were leveraged for acoustic absorption. Rockfon Canva Wall panels were selected for their versatility, high customisation potential, and excellent acoustic performance.

The Edda Kino cinema complex is committed to sustainability, holding both Green Conferences certification and the Norwegian Eco-Lighthouse designation. Durability was a key factor in all product selection for the cinema design. "As a public venue, we take our responsibility seriously – we have the opportunity to show that sustainable choices can enhance the quality of the cinema experience", says the cinema's general manager Marit Sætre Færevåg.

"Given that we are working with a hundred-year timeline, it's crucial to choose a product that we can rely on for the foreseeable future", laughs Irene Birkeland, adding that the installation methodology also played an essential role in ensuring an efficient construction process.

Featuring a texture-weave pattern, the exterior canvases of Rockfon Canva Wall panels are detachable, washable, and replaceable. In one hall, Rockfon Canva Wall panels in the Scarlet colour are split across two rows. In the second hall, the wall panels are installed in the Ebony colour, a rich red-brown. The 40mm stone wool absorber within each panel offers Class A sound absorption, complementing the ceiling’s acoustic performance.

"Many cinema enthusiasts would argue that everything should be black. We could certainly do that, but there's something about creating a hall that looks beautiful with the lights on and stands out from other venues", says Marit Sætre Færevåg. "While it's nice to receive praise for the stylish interiors and comfortable seating, it's even better to hear people feel a positive energy in the room. It's the lights, the colours, the attention to detail, combined with the care and thoughtfulness that bring everything together harmoniously".

Perfect cinema acoustics at Edda Kino in Haugesund

Many cinema enthusiasts would argue that everything should be black. We could certainly do that, but there's something about creating a hall that looks beautiful with the lights on and stands out from other venues.

Marit Sætre Færevåg

General Manager, Edda Kino Cinema
Location:Haugesund, Norway
Architect:Arkipelet
Interior designer:Arkipelet
Contractor:Haakull & Ersland
Installer:Haakull & Ersland
Photographer:CatchLight Fotostudio AS
Tiles:Rockfon Canva® Wall panel, Rockfon Color-all®
Edges:B, X

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