The Hollywood Bowl Case Study

An Icon Refined for Open-Air Performance

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Built EnvironmentBuilt Environment

Industry

Performing Arts Centers

Location

California

Architect | Architect of Record | Theater Consultant

Hodgetts & Fung Design Associates | Gruen Associates | Fisher Dachs Associates

The Hollywood Bowl is a world-renowned outdoor amphitheater set within the Hollywood Hills, hosting nearly 20,000 guests for concerts and cultural events. The project introduced a new structure while maintaining the character of the historic shell. Jaffe Holden, a Trinity Consultants team, provided acoustic design to enhance performance quality in this iconic venue.

Vision

The project aimed to elevate the listening experience within a large outdoor environment where traditional acoustic support is limited. Enhancements were designed to support both orchestral and amplified performances while preserving the venue’s identity. Looking ahead, the Bowl continues to deliver high-quality sound across a wide range of programming.

Partnership

The design team, including Hodgetts & Fung Design Associates, Gruen Associates, and Fisher Dachs Associates, collaborated to balance architectural preservation with acoustic performance. Jaffe Holden worked closely with the team to integrate acoustic systems within the redesigned shell.

Services Performed

Trinity Consultants’ Jaffe Holden team provided acoustic design for the Hollywood Bowl, enhancing sound quality in a large open-air venue while preserving its historic character. Services included architectural acoustics and sound reinforcement, with solutions such as a reflective shell and tunable panels to improve clarity, projection, and onstage hearing.

Value-Add

A demountable reflective shell was designed to provide acoustic support typically absent in outdoor venues, improving onstage hearing and sound projection. Tunable reflector panels allow adjustments based on performance needs. Additional sound reinforcement strategies enhance reverberation and clarity across audience areas.

17,376

seat outdoor venue

$25 million

construction cost

Thanks to Jaffe Holden’s exceptional design, the Institute of Contemporary Art’s Barbara Lee Family Foundation Theater has consistently impressed both audiences and performing artists since opening in 2006. The discrete acoustical treatment above our hardwood ceiling, as well as the rippled design of the theater’s entire East wall, plays a crucial role in managing reflections and ensuring both clarity and warmth. Additionally, the team’s expert noise isolation design allows for seamless co-existence between the Barbara Lee Family Foundation Theater, our lobby, and our galleries, even as significant development has transformed the surrounding Seaport District. Their expertise continues to be invaluable, and we deeply appreciate their ongoing support in maintaining the integrity of their original acoustical vision.

Ryan Arnett | Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston
Director of Production