Historical protections characterize the greatest scope of challenges faced by the design team in accomplishing the objectives. Virtually everything about the building envelope had to remain unaltered, including existing finishes, plastering, timber, tile, stone, room dimensions, and other structural details.
The banquet hall featured a high ceiling and reflective wall finishes that were not conducive to good acoustics. The design had to accommodate several potential uses, including dining, stage presentations, and auditorium-style seating, with an audio-visual (AV) system installed for music and spoken word events. As well, air-conditioning (AC) was a problem, as a false ceiling would not be allowed in the hall; the AC would have to operate on high-velocity nozzles, creating an added noise risk.
The old executive lounge, which would be converted into a private meeting room, was located directly below the kitchen. Foot traffic from above could be heard below, as well as general noise from kitchen activities and plumbing. The space was also located directly next to the main lobby entrance, creating further challenges, given the original walls presented a mix of glass, plasterboard, and some joinery elements, much of which could not be changed per historical protections.
Lastly, AV equipment would be installed for video conferences and small group presentations, an added consideration for final design.