History · The first cinema was built in 1907. Early UK and USA cinemas developed ornate, escapist interiors, the amount of absorptive finishes not being critical when silent movies were accompanied by orchestra or organ. · Later on the size of the movie theatre increased; the 1927 Roxy in New York housed 6000 people. · Sound systems were initially primitive, and then loudspeakers replaced simple, single speakers. · In 1950s, wide screens became necessary. The aim was greater sound-in-space effect from surround sound systems. Design criteria Design is considered under the following headings: 1. Development 2. Size 3. Isolation 4. Seating 5. Materials 6. Ventilation Design criteria The elimination of reflective surfaces in a cinema hall is necessary not only because of low RT ,but also to preserve the directional effect of sound ,since the sound should appear to come from the projection screen So the loudspeakers are located behind the scr...