Details
At Helsinki City Theatre, the listed 1960s architecture was preserved while the building was brought up to modern standards. Modern building services and Broadway-level stage technology were integrated into the original architecture.
The extensive refurbishment of Helsinki City Theatre, designed by architect Timo Penttilä, took nearly two years and was completed in spring 2017. The building services throughout the theatre were comprehensively upgraded while respecting the character of the listed building.
Penttilä’s original designs were also taken into account in details such as the upholstery of the auditorium seats and the selection of fitted carpets for the foyers.
Listed theatre, Broadway-level technology
The refurbishment preserved the original atmosphere of the theatre, which was completed in 1967. All timber elements, marble surfaces and foyer furniture were retained, carefully cleaned and restored, while the original 1960s light fittings were upgraded with LED technology. The stage technology was renewed to match the level of theatres on New York’s Broadway and London’s West End.
A major project delivered through collaboration
Helsinki City Theatre is a landmark of Finnish culture and architecture. A large team of professionals contributed to its modernisation, with up to 340 people working on site at the busiest stage of the project. In total, 2,027 workers were inducted on site during the refurbishment.
A better theatre for audiences
Audience comfort was improved by adding more toilets, improving accessibility and developing guidance for people with visual or hearing impairments. Digital displays were installed in the foyers and signage was renewed. New additions also included rentable meeting rooms in the balcony foyer of the main auditorium. A new façade lighting system, which changes according to the time of day and season, brings a new element to Helsinki’s urban landscape.
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