Pankow Builders recently awarded CST Covers the contract for fabrication of the structural aluminum framing system on the Ford Theatres Project in Hollywood, California.

At 1,200 seats, the Ford Theatres creates an intimate concert experience that is a favorite among Los Angeles residents. Located in a County regional park in the Hollywood Hills, the Ford, as it is intimately known, is owned and operated by the County of Los Angeles and operated through a three-way partnership between the Los Angeles County Arts Commission, the Department of Parks and Recreation and the Ford Theatres Foundation.

Designed by the renowned Architect, Brenda A. Levin, FAIA, Founder of the architectural firm Levin & Associates, the patron and performers will now experience a state of the art performance venue, set in a beautifully landscaped canyon. The John Anson Ford Amphitheatre project includes the rehabilitation and improvements of the historic Amphitheatre, while protecting its existing context. These improvements include a new stage, infrastructure, technical theatrical lighting and acoustic treatments, as well as new support spaces for the performer. In addition, a new landscaped terrace with a two-story building that includes concessions will provide both dining and picnic opportunities for pre- and post-performances and special events. The theatre hosts a very broad selection of artists and arts organizations providing an active relevant community resource.

Included in the overall restoration, the construction of a new sound wall along the rear of the Amphitheatre will be added to create a sound barrier between the theatre itself and the 101 Freeway. The intent of the sound wall was to create a dramatic new acoustical barrier that will dampen noise from the exterior traffic without interfering with the nature around the space. The sound wall consists of a soothing natural color palette creating an organic extension of the canyon.

Working in conjunction with the Architect Levin & Associates and Pankow Builders, CST Covers’ design development team got involved in the early stages of the project to provide structural design and value engineering assistance on the unique sound wall. This collaborative effort aided in creative, cost effective solutions to support the many different elements that together created the overall acoustical, theatrical and aesthetical feature of the project.

The 220 linear feet of sound wall is comprised of an all-aluminum vertical truss system with a complex combination of channels and purlins that unify to support and capture many elements, including but not limited to: the exterior acoustical and architectural panels, catwalk framing, walkway grating, and miscellaneous access components. The upper level of the truss system also acts as structural rigging for the theatrical lighting feature.

Due to the non-corrosive properties of aluminum, the structure will require no maintenance and offer many years of functionality. For aesthetic purposes, the structure will be painted with natural tones of buckskin and bronze to blend into the nature.

CST Covers has supplied over 18,000 covers in more than 90 different countries and offers multiple structural, highstrength aluminum design solutions including domes, vaults, extruded flat covers, formed flat panel covers, truss supported covers, spaceframes as well as custom products specifically designed for customers unique vertical and overhead applications.

The company maintains manufacturing facilities and technical design centers in Gardena, California; Conroe, Texas; and Rincon, Georgia. The company is headquartered out of the Conroe, TX location.