Currently under construction in the Dutch city of Spijkenisse is the Theatre Spijkenisse designed by UNStudio. Concern for how the Theatre would fit into the urban landscape drove the design creating a theatre which is both clearly contemporary but which also maintains ties to the non-sleek city surroundings in the form of such elements as the tall storefront windows which wrap the ground level. The result is one which works very well when viewed from the perspective of the occupant or visitor. But the exterior view is one which is slightly incongruous- an incomplete chimera.
photography by © Jan Paul Mioulet
But that is only the outside. And that counts only as far as the door. Since what will ultimately judge and define the Theatre Spijkenisse is how it functions, that deserves some attention. The programmatic features of the structure have been laid out so as to maximize the efficiency of flow through and around the complex.
The landscaping as well as various interior volumes find guidance from level changes inherent to the site, creating a logic to the way the Theatre is set out. The end result will feature two main theatres accessible by way of a sculptural stair leading off of the main foyer, as well as a theatre cafe which can double as an a third, amphitheatre style theatre.
photography by © Peter de Jong
Courtesy of UNStudio
Matt Davis is a Virginia Tech graduate and one of the founding editors behind Arch2O. Launching the platform in mid‑2012 alongside fellow Hokies, he helped shape its identity as an international hub for design innovation and critical dialogue . With a foundation in architectural education and a passion for uncovering unconventional design approaches, Matt has contributed significantly—both editorially and strategically—to Arch2O’s growth, ensuring that emerging architects, academics, and creatives have a space to question, explore, and elevate the built environment.