Product Review: Theatre Buildings: A Design Guide As a theatre enthusiast and someone who has attended many performances at various venues, I have always been fascinated by the design and construction of these spaces. That's why when I came across "Theatre Buildings: A Design Guide" by the Association of British Theatre Technicians (ABTT), I was eager to read it and learn more about this topic. This book is a comprehensive guide for anyone interested in theatre buildings, whether you are an architect, designer, or simply someone who enjoys attending plays and musicals. The authors provide detailed information on the various aspects of theatre design, including acoustics, lighting, seating arrangements, and more. They also discuss the different types of theatres, such as proscenium arch theatres, arena theatres, and black-box theatres. One of the things that stood out to me in this book was the emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency in theatre design. The authors discuss various ways to reduce energy consumption, such as using natural light and ventilation systems, installing energy-efficient lighting fixtures, and incorporating green technologies into building materials. This is an important aspect of modern architecture that many people are becoming more aware of, and it's great to see the theatre industry embracing these principles as well. Another area where this book excels is in its discussion of technical standards for places of entertainment. The authors provide a detailed overview of the various codes and regulations that govern the design and construction of theatres, including fire safety, accessibility, and noise control. This information is essential for anyone involved in theatre planning or construction, as it ensures that the space is safe and comfortable for both performers and audience members. In addition to its technical aspects, this book also includes a number of case studies that showcase some of the most impressive theatre designs from around the world. These examples range from small community theatres to large-scale productions at major venues like the Royal Opera House in London. Each case study provides valuable insights into the design process and the challenges faced by architects and designers when creating these spaces. Overall, "Theatre Buildings: A Design Guide" is a must-read for anyone interested in theatre architecture and design. The book covers all aspects of this fascinating field, from technical standards to sustainability to case studies of some of the most impressive theatres in existence.