diamond + schmitt architects: new mariinsky theatre, st. petersburg, russia

a rendering of the new mariinsky theatre in st. petersburg, russia image courtesy of diamond + schmitt architects

canadian architectural firm diamond + schmitt architects has been nominated to design the 4-million new mariinsky theatre complex’s 2000-seat opera and ballet house in st. petersburg, russia. the design of the new theatre will be a contemporary expression of the existing historic urban form. the height of the fenestrated masonry base will be consistent with the buildings of historic st. petersburg, fitting into the streets of the old city. the base of the building will be relieved by large bay windows that will provide panoramic views of the city, fulfilling the role of the historic colonnaded porticos which stand out from the facade.

above the new mariinsky theatre will be a gently curved metal roof adorned by a glass canopy. the contrast in form, material and color between the building’s base and its roof will give the structure a contemporary identity, while still being rooted within the context of st. peterburg’s architectural heritage. the city’s distinctive and historic skyline will be visible from the roof terraces.

the curved metal roof of the building is topped off by a glass canopy image courtesy of diamond + schmitt architects

the upper levels of the theatre provide panoramic views of the city image courtesy of diamond + schmitt architects

the airy interior image courtesy of diamond + schmitt architects

a restaurant overlooking the adjacent canal and historic marrinsky theatre will form part of the new theatre’s public area image courtesy of diamond + schmitt architects