Frankston Arts Centre

Inclusive not just Accessible Design

An example of simple yet effective design that doesn't sideline wheelchair users, by Bill Forrester

The Frankston Arts Centre in the South East of Melbourne, Australia, has developed a simple design that allows for an inclusive experience for its patrons. Many accessible theatre solutions have been hampered by space restrictions have have resulted in a poor solutions often seeing wheelchair patrons positioned in poor areas of the venue and often restricted to having one person only seated with them. The Frankston Arts centre developed a wide transverse row linking the main entrance doors on opposite sides of the theatre. Besides two permanent spaces all other seats in the row are individually removable by three hand operated bolts. This seating plan allows wheelchair patrons to be seated with their family or friends. As each seat is individually removable chairs of all sizes can be catered for including full roller beds. The system is simple and allows for a fully inclusive experience as individual spaces are created as required. All that is needed is to inform the box office of your requirements at the time of the booking.

The great thing about the design is that the seats that are removable are the same as those that are fixed. All that has been added is a base plate with threaded housings to match the holes in the base plates of the original seats. The new base plates are bolted to the floor and the seats attached with the hand bolts. In theory the system could be applied to any existing theatre that had a level area with access from the main entry doors.

Other Accessible Features

Opened in 1995, and designed by renowned architect, Daryl Jackson, The Frankston Arts Centre with its seating capacity of 800 is one of the largest metropolitan and regional arts venues in Australia. The Centre has been the venue for various iconic performances including the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, OzOpera, and the Australian Ballet as well as international artists and performers.

Direct Access from the main street and car park

The theatre is serviced by automatic double sliding doors from the main street level and by automatic lifts from the accessible parking bays under the theatre.

Deaf and hearing impaired patrons

The front and rear stalls are fitted with a hearing loop, an assistive hearing system to enable patrons with hearing aids to hear more clearly. Some performances are captioned, using two screens to each side of the stage or signed (Auslan - interpretation in Australian sign language)

Amenities for all

The centre provides accessible toilet facilities that provide for people with disabilities and wheelchair users, as well as baby change rooms. The box office, refreshment area and brochure racks for forthcoming performances are all accessible by wheelchair patrons.