Arup among firms commissioned to develop sustainable cultural landmark

Tenderstream member Arup has been commissioned to support the transformation of Arnhem theatre in the Netherlands into a sustainable and future-oriented cultural landmark. The theatre offers a wide-ranging programme, from opera to cabaret, but also hosts some of Arnhem's top national companies in modern dance, theatre and symphonic music. As part of the design team - alongside Braaksma & Roos and CIVIC - Arup is helping reimagine the historic theatre as a vibrant hub that blends history with innovation. 

Nestled in a green urban oasis in the heart of Arnhem, the theatre was built on the site of a former monastery complex in 1938 and features unusual Art Deco details. The history of the structure is a source of inspiration for the new design, alongside a desire to lessen the site’s environmental impact. The heritage entrance area will be re-established, while the imposing brick surfaces with their subtle lines will be restored. The festive colour palette of the original main auditorium, including blue, ivory, pink and gold leaf, has influenced the interior design. 

The removed brick façade will be carefully cut so that it can be reused elsewhere, with the empty slots providing nesting areas for birds. Rubble will create retaining walls in the gardens, while textiles from the floor carpets and old theatre chairs will also be reused. The entirety of the secondary auditorium will be built from recycled materials, highlighting the possibilities of a circular future.

The building’s surrounding gardens create a pleasant environment for socialising or relaxing, while green roofs, façades and canopies contribute to water retention and cooling in the otherwise mainly paved city centre. Loading docks for heavy trucks are concentrated in one place, allowing the area around the theatre to become traffic-free.

Arup is providing integrated engineering and sustainability consultancy, including structural and building services design, fire safety, architectural lighting design, acoustics and climate-responsive strategies. The approach focused on balancing technical performance with user experience, is ensuring that the theatre remains a cherished space for generations to come.

Lucy Nordberg
Tenderstream Head of Research

This tender was first published by Tenderstream on 21.06.2022 here

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