A uniquely large listed concrete depot is to be adapted to create a new national theatre for Warsaw.
This white box shaped building with its concrete bow string roof, nobly scaled walls and large regular openings is restored and left raw internally. It is joined by a ribbon of light to its opposite, a modern extension, 'a black box', clad in a perforate theatrical curtain wall that transforms by night.
The main auditorium is located within the concrete shell. It provides exceptional flexibility with options extending to day lit performance and promenade expanding through the foyer to the studio theatre. The studio theatre, admin, education centre, theatre library, public and house facilities within the 'black box' front onto a new town square to the west. In response to the extremes of the continental climate central elements of the frontage can open up for the summer months.
Inspired by the theatrical tradition of Cantor and Brecht this provides a centre of national excellence and a top international performing arts venue.