Haworth Tompkins & White Arkitekter Refurbish This Hippodromen Theatre
Kalina N — May 29, 2023 — Art & Design
References: dezeen & haworthtompkins
Located in Sweden, this 19th-century Hippodromen Theatre has quite the story. The building was originally erected in 1898 and designed by Theodor Wåhlin. Inaugurally, the structure was used as a circus. Some of its historic architectural motifs are retained to this day. Between now and then, the Hippodromen Theatre—which has come to be known as the Malmö Theatre (or Hipp, to locals)—has undergone a number of renovations. Most recently, the British studio Haworth Tompkins and the Swedish firm White Arkitekter took a stab at updating the building. The collaborators focused on a variety of aspects that needed attention—from the "terrible lighting" and poor acoustics in the auditorium to the "cold and sterile spaces." As mentioned, some fo the circus aspects of the building were retained like the circus stall entrance.
Image Credit: Åke E:son Lindman
Image Credit: Åke E:son Lindman
Trend Themes
1. Historic Theatre Preservation - The renovation of the Hippodromen Theatre highlights a trend in preserving historic theatre buildings while updating them to meet modern standards.
2. Refurbishment Collaborations - Collaborating with firms from different countries can lead to innovative refurbishment techniques for historic structures.
3. Multi-functional Theatres - The Hippodromen Theatre's use as a circus originally and as a theatre now showcases the trend of repurposing historic buildings for multi-functional use.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - Architecture firms can capitalize on the trend of refurbishing historic buildings by providing innovative and sustainable solutions for upgrading these structures while maintaining their historical significance.
2. Event Production - The trend of multi-functional theatres allows event production companies to provide unique and diverse spaces for a variety of events and performances.
3. Historical Tourism - Preserving and updating historic theatre buildings for multi-functional use can attract tourists looking for unique and authentic experiences, providing opportunities for the travel industry.
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