The renovation of the University’s administration building, originally built in 1917, included the Ruby Diamond Auditorium, built in 1954. Acoustical upgrades included reshaping of the walls in plan, a forestage reflector, a purpose-designed orchestra shell, an enlarged proscenium opening and the installation of variable acoustical curtains. The forestage reflector is designed for on-stage hearing and improved sound impact, immediacy, and intimacy for performers and audience. Background noise from outside and the new HVAC systems is reduced close to the threshold of hearing.