Acoustic Transformation: Auditorio de Tenerife
The Challenge
The Auditorio de Tenerife's acoustic enhancement, a collaboration between the auditorium's technical team and RG Sanles Acoustics (led by Jorge Cabrera, Technical Director at Auditorio de Tenerife, Ricardo Sanles, and PhD. Jaime Delannoy), began in 2018. Phase 1 (completed in 2019) focused on the acoustic shell, setting the stage for later improvements. Phases 2 and 3 (2021-2025) refined the acoustics of the symphonic hall, proscenium, orchestra pit, and chamber hall, minimizing visual alterations to Santiago Calatrava's design.
Phase 1, launched in 2018, centred on the comprehensive renovation of the Auditorio’s acoustic shell. This pivotal stage established the foundation for all subsequent improvements, resolving core acoustic challenges and creating a robust platform for future refinements. The primary objective was to achieve greater balance and control of the stage acoustic environment, enhancing clarity and intelligibility for the Symphony Orchestra of Tenerife, the resident ensemble of the Auditorio de Tenerife.
Developing the design for Phase 2 and 3
Phase 2: Perfecting the Bridge/Proscenium and Orchestra Pit
Phase 2 focused on improving the transition and connection between the stage, proscenium, and orchestra pit, with the objective of reducing reverberation and enhancing clarity for opera. The design aimed to bring the Symphony Hall closer to the operatic target of 1.5 seconds, This adjustment significantly improved balance, intelligibility, and the overall listening experience.
Phase 3: Symphonic Perfection
500m² of new acoustic surfaces for balanced, powerful sound
Phases 2 (Bridge/Proscenium/Pit) and 3, completed in August 2024, focused on fine-tuning the hall’s acoustics to meet both operatic and symphonic requirements. The design aimed to approach the operatic target of 1.5 seconds at full capacity. A T30 (empty) target of 1.64 s was set; the final measured value was 1.73 s, as the panels, originally intended to be 100% perforated, were not fully executed. Even so, the result brought the hall very close to the operatic range, preserving clarity and control on stage. Phase 3 involved the strategic installation of 500 m² of new binary amplitude diffusers, designed and positioned to optimise the reverberation response through a controlled combination of diffusion and absorption across 18 of the hall’s lower reflectors. Previously, these reflectors returned excessive energy to the stage, creating imbalance for the musicians. Their treatment not only reduced this effect but also allowed the high reflectors to work with greater presence, smoothing late reflections and widening the spatial impression. The diffusers played a key role in controlling high energy levels, removing the sharp or “rasping” sensation that occurred at high dynamics, while lowfrequency definition improved, adding depth and solidity to the orchestral sound. Overall, clarity increased across both low and high frequencies, with a uniform 0.3-second reduction in reverberation time between 125 Hz and 4 kHz, no loss in the lowest frequencies, and a seamless transition above this range. The outcome is a hall with a more balanced, powerful, and natural sound, equally suited for opera and symphonic repertoire. The panels were designed with a flexible face to follow the curvature of the reflectors. This project was delivered under a highly demanding schedule, with the auditorium available for only four weeks.
As acoustic designer and director, I supervised the works carried out by the British team of ISS Acoustics & Interiors, whose exceptional commitment proved decisive in meeting this challenge. Within just seven days, ISS successfully installed more than 70% of Binary Amplitude Diffusers with stretch fabric technology — an extraordinary achievement that ensured timely completion of the project in the end. The reality is that only a company of ISS’s calibre could have performed at this level under such constraints. At the same time, Mr. Jorge Cabrera Ortiz, as Technical Director of Auditorio de Tenerife, provided essential leadership in coordinating resources and overseeing the recovery of all elements from customs. His contribution was equally critical to ensuring the works were completed within the limited timeframe.
This is the Symphony Hall after the completed acoustic renovations, now showcasing its majestic design, enhanced depth, and remarkable clarity, offering an unparalleled auditory experience, with the alterations remaining invisible to the eye.
The Data
Chamber Hall Transformation
Before
The Chamber Hall previously suffered from inconsistent acoustics, significantly impacting the quality of small-scale performances. Sound reflections were concentrated with several strong echoes, leading to uneven sound distribution and muddled Sonic experiences for both performers and the audience. The lack of proper acoustic treatment resulted in excessive reverberation at mid frequencies compared to high and low ranges, making the overall sound balance uneven and undesirable for high energy performances.
After
The Chamber Hall was upgraded with 300 m² of new acoustic surfaces, designed to mitigate echoes and improve the uniformity of sound distribution. Although the original plan targeted a T30 of 0.8 seconds, the ceiling intervention had to be removed due to installation constraints and limited time. Acoustic material was therefore redistributed within the hall, resulting in a final reverberation time of 1.29 seconds empty (1.20 seconds with carpet on stage). These results provided effective control of reflections, improved clarity for speech, and a balanced environment for both spoken word and musical performance.
This is the Chamber Hall after the acoustic renovations, featuring its striking new fractal back wall and seamlessly integrated acoustic surfaces combining diffusion and absorption.
The Data
The Overall Results
Experience the Transformation
RG Sanles Acoustics invites you to visit the Auditorio de Tenerife and experience the remarkable transformation firsthand. Witness how world-class acoustics now perfectly complement this stunning architectural masterpiece.
If your venue is facing acoustic challenges or seeking tailored solutions to achieve excellence, RG Sanles Acoustics is here to help. Contact us today to bring your vision to life.
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Ricardo Sanles
Acoustic Designer MIOA – MAES
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