Open Space Theatre Karlsruhe

Within the restructuring of the theatre Karlsruhe the open space has to get a new design too. The task for us landscape architects is it to create an attractive square for representing the theatre and connecting the surrounding districts with each other. A cultural and social space which is part of the new interpretation of the theatre in this day and age.

Followed by the cubage of the architecture the flowing levels of the foyer at the inside of the building are reflected in the design of the plaza. It is divided into two levels, the representative and the active level which transfers the architectural design of a moving landscape to the outside of the building. The representative layer can be seen as the forecourt of the theatre for the need to stage their art outside and get the attention of the city. The active layer in front of that is supposed to animate the people to stay and meet. The design is extended to the other side of the street so it is opening up to the city and generates a public space for everyone who is passing. Skate islands are emerging out of the smooth concrete pavement and above of that a sculptural light construction is imitating the roof of the theatre which is designed like a transparent tent above the architecture. The shadow play of that sculpture is liven the scenery up too. All in all the design is uniting architecture and landscape architecture to one whole sculpture. It's creating not only an open space for the theater but it is giving the city a new address of coming together. It is supposed to be an intersection between the city and its culture. A meeting point for all generations coming in contact with each other and the new sculpture of arts.