In the spring of 2004, Paul de Ruiter Architects was commissioned to design a theatre in the Southeast district of Amsterdam. The Bijlmer park Theatre was to be a multifunctional centre for four regular tenants: Circus Elleboog, Krater Theatre, the Youth Theatre School and the Theatre Workplace.
Elevating the neighbourhood :
The urban development plan of the neighbourhood stipulated that the Bijlmer park Theatre was to be located at the heart of the Bijlmer, adjacent to the Bijlmer park and the new Anton de Komplein. By virtue of its location, the theatre stimulates the cultural and socio-economic developments in the surrounding area. It also establishes the starting point of a new cultural axis that connects the various cultural facilities of the outdoor entertainment centre ArenAPoort.
Courtesy of Paul de Ruiter Architects – Photographs : Pieter Kers
Elliptical shape :
The building has a distinctive elliptical shape, and the upper floors are slightly displaced in relation to the floor below. This cantilever creates a covered entrance area. The shape of the building meant we had to find a financially viable way to reproduce this rounded form in the façade, which is partly made of glass. We found the solution by combining vertical wooden slats with corrugated steel.
“During the day the theater stands out because of its shape, whereas in the evening it’s catches your eye due to its color, which can be adjusted because of the application of LED.”
Courtesy of Paul de Ruiter Architects – Photographs : Pieter Kers
Daylight in the main hall :
The client emphasised the need for daylight in the main hall. Classes and rehearsals would take place here during the day, and a decent amount of daylight is of great importance for the atmosphere and sense of orientation. To this end, we created a glass surround on the first floor that runs all around the main hall. This solution lets in a maximal amount of light and allows parents and other interested parties to watch lessons and rehearsals unobtrusively. These windows can be darkened to keep out daylight during performances.
Courtesy of Paul de Ruiter Architects – Photographs : Pieter Kers
Project Info :
Architect : Paul de Ruiter
Project Year : 2007
Photography : Pieter Kers
Gross floor area : 2.010 m²
Acoustic Advisor : DHV-Dorsser Blesgraaf
Client : City of Amsterdam, district Zuidoost
Contractor : Bouwbedrijf M.J. de Nijs en zn.
Project Location : Anton de Komplein, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Project team : Roel Rutgers, Willem Jan Landman, Dieter Blok
Urban planning : Rein Geurtsen & Partners bv bureau voor stadsontwerp & Mecanoo
User : Circus Elleboog, Jeugdtheaterschool Zuidoost, Theater Werkplaats Zuidoost, Krater Theater
