witherford watson mann builds a theater inside a 17th century stable block in the UK
shortlisted for the 2019 RIBA stirling prize, the project uses a rich material palette to complement the existing structure.
located in the english county of leicestershire, ‘nevill holt opera’, designed by witherford watson mann architects, has been shortlisted for the 2019 RIBA stirling prize – the award for the UK‘s best new building. the 400-seat theater has been delicately inserted within a 17th century stable block on a grade I listed estate. using a rich material palette for both the acoustics and to complement the existing structure, the intervention provides a world-class space for opera.
the nevill holt opera hidden inside the stone walls of the 17th century stable block
image courtesy of witherford watson mann
considering the historic setting, the theater is designed by the architects with a sensitive touch and to be invisible from the outside. at first hidden from view behind the original stone walls, the contemporary insertion in the former courtyard is only revealed upon entering. during the day, the theater welcomes guests into a space filled with soft, natural light thanks to a new rooflight. under this light, the rich material palette of stone and timber comes to life.
view from the balcony
image courtesy of witherford watson mann
the materials have been selected not just to complement the existing architecture, but also to provide acoustic warmth. with collaboration from acoustic consultant, sound space vision, the theater has been designed with a horseshoe-shaped hall, providing considerable acoustical reflections, resonance, clarity and immersion.
the original stone walls define the space
image courtesy of witherford watson mann
nevill holt opera general manager, rosenna east, comments on the project, ‘we are delighted that our outstanding new theater has been recognized with a RIBA national award, a testament to the exceptional vision, creativity and hard work of the entire project team. from start to finish, this project has captured the imagination of all involved, and we are profoundly grateful to the david ross foundation for enabling it. audiences and artists alike are now able to enjoy world class opera in this uniquely intimate and stunning space.’
the use of timber complements the existing stone material
image courtesy of witherford watson mann
with consideration being payed to the historic surroundings and material palette, nevill holt opera welcomes theater-goers into a beautifully intimate space. designed by stirling prize winning architects witherford watson mann and theatre designers sound space vision, built by messenger BCR and supported by the david ross foundation, the intervention provides the perfect place to enjoy high-quality performances.
the spaces are bathed in soft, diffused light from the roof
image courtesy of witherford watson mann
the space ready for a performance
image courtesy of witherford watson mann
site plan
image © witherford watson mann architects
stalls plan
image © witherford watson mann architects
balcony plan
image © witherford watson mann architects
cross section
image © witherford watson mann architects
long section
image © witherford watson mann architects
project info:
project name: ‘nevill holt opera’
location: nevill holt, leicestershire, the UK
architect: witherford watson mann architects
client: nevill holt opera
consultants:
theater & acoustic consultants: sound space vision
structural engineers: price & myers
services engineers: max fordham
cost consultants: gleeds
conservation architects: julian harrap architects
duration: 2015 – 2018
status: built
designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.
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