Ben Hanson

Ben provides consultancy in all aspects of theatre design, specialising in auditorium design and planning, seating, sightlines and accessibility. As Design Principal, he champions and mentors on theatre design and code across the practice.

I work closely with project teams and the wider artistic and design teams to develop and maintain the core vision of each project. My role is to ensure that the original aspirations are carried through as the design evolves, shaping the building around the practical and technical needs of the theatrical productions it will ultimately host. This means integrating theatre requirements from the outset, so the space performs as intended. A key focus of my approach is to avoid compromising the architectural or artistic vision. Rather than allowing theatre requirements to dilute the design, I work to adapt and refine both the building and its systems so that essential performance elements are seamlessly integrated. The aim is not to create an “off-the-shelf” venue applied to a building, but to realise a theatre that supports both the identity of the building and the creative ambitions of the artists who will bring it to life.

What Excites You Most About Your Work

Creating spaces that will host productions capable of challenging perspectives, inspiring audiences. I have had the pleasure of working closely with leading designers and world-class theatre practitioners to and hope to have shape the theatre environments that enable increasable performance and welcome everybody to the environments for passing knowledge and inspiring.

A Book, Podcast, Building, or Creative Work That Inspires You

Science fiction films from my childhood inspired my love of building models, which in turn shaped my journey from architecture school to assistant set designer, working with increasable architectural firms, and ultimately to my current role here at Charcoalblue.

Cultural Value You Most Identify With

Creativity and innovation sit at the heart of everything I do, guiding every effort to shape projects that become exceptional spaces for storytelling and sparking conversation. I aim to create venues that not only support the technical and practical needs of productions but also embrace audiences, providing spaces where everyone can come together and share in the experience. My approach goes beyond simply reinventing venues; I develop new ideas and integrate theatrical elements to ensure each space becomes a platform that inspires, engages, and elevates both the work performed and the people who experience it.