II AWARD in the Architectural competition for the development of an architectural concept for the Theater of the Polish Royal Opera in Warsaw.
Architects: APA Wojciechowski
Visualizations: VA-ARTS
Poland, Warsaw
2023
Information and opinion on Competition Work and justification for the award of the Second Prize
The proposal presented is a cuboidal, almost symmetrical block, 11.41m high, set on the axis of the Palace on the Water. The mass is topped with an 18-meter stage tower built into a system of pergolas obscuring the roof terraces. Also, the functional-spatial layout was built along the same main axis in a sequence from the foyer, through the hall for 355 spectators, the stage with pockets, and the so-called agora. In this way, the building was opened to both the park-like south side and the north side facing the Piaseczyn Canal. The glazed, multi-faceted facade with a vertical, irregular arrangement of stone pillars provides view links with the park. The design correctly, clearly zones the functional complexes, ensuring their division as well as appropriate connections. The work employs a number of pro-environmental and energy-saving solutions aimed at lowering the carbon footprint and reducing the "heat effect," including through the use of biologically and ecologically active areas.
The second prize was awarded for the clear linking of the complex function of the opera facility with the simple and logical form of the building. The solutions introduced, especially the creation of the so-called agora, allow the realization of artistic and educational activities in various spaces inside and outside the building, linking these activities to the public space of the park. Also appreciated was the attempt to solve the spatial arrangement of the auditorium and the stage complex in such a way that the basic activities take place at a level related to the surrounding terrain, both in the public areas, as well as in the area of handling the show and transporting stage decorations. These measures also contributed to reducing the necessary depth of the building foundation.
General guidelines for the concept of the Opera House building
Congratulations to the Winners and Laureates!
RECALL