Main Hall (Renewed 2017),
SUNTORY HALL

Suntory Hall, built in 1986 to create 'the world's most beautiful sound'

The origin of Suntory Hall dates back to 1986. With the basic concept of creating ‘the world’s most beautiful sound’, the hall was designed with inputs from a wide range of conductors, performers, and music lovers from all walks of life, from Japan and abroad; it has become Japan's representative classical concert hall.

It was designed in the 'Vineyard style', the first of its type in Japan. This style is closer to the audience than the rectangular 'shoebox' style and has audience seats arranged in rows like a vineyard and surrounding the stage; it brings the performers and audience closer together in harmony, both acoustically and visually. The hall has led the classical music world in Japan since its opening and its beautiful sound has captivated musicians worldwide.

'Inheritance of tradition and innovation', the concept behind the major renovation marking the 30th anniversary

Suntory Hall underwent its third major renovation in 2016, on the occasion of its 30th anniversary. The concept of 'Inheritance of tradition and innovation' was chosen to maintain ‘the world’s most beautiful sound’ idea, stated at the time of its opening. The entire building, including the seating, stage, lighting, and entrance, was renovated based on the three themes of 'Inheritance of Tradition - Sound and Design', 'Diversity Design - For All Visitors', and 'Further Enhancement of Facilities - Creating a Next-Generation Music Space', that follow the concept.

The theme for the 2,006-seat auditorium is 'Inheritance of Tradition - Sound and Design'. To keep the building's materials and appearance as they were when it was built, a delicate renovation was required.

Redesigning of original seats to improve acoustics

The most eye-catching and striking feature of the seating chairs is the unique design of burgundy grape pattern, a nod to the Vineyard format. The same upholstery is used for the fixed seats, the orchestra chairs for the performers, and the supporting seats of the same type; this is one of the important elements giving Suntory Hall its image. The upholstery was also re-made during the renovation.

The seat's back, armrests, and legs are made of thick, heavy, flexible wood. The armrest between the seats is curved smoothly and made of plenty of natural wood. Detailed designs such as the single line under the armrest and the shallow, soft notch make each seat stand out.

We repainted and polished each of these parts after repairing minor scratches on them during this renovation. The urethane cushions on the straight backrests of the seats have been replaced, and the volume has been restored to that at the opening time. Ergonomically designed seat with the bulge that adapts to the curve of the user's back, is in harmony with the reupholstered textile, giving the illusion of a new seat.

A small change in the seats can change the degree of sound absorption and reverberation, leading to a big impact on the overall sound of the hall, so great care was taken when replacing the seating. The 'world's most beautiful sound' reverberates throughout the hall to this day consistently.

Courtesy of  Suntory Hall and NHK Symphony Orchestra, Tokyo

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