We now know what the new Contemporary Theatre in Szczecin will look like. First prize in the competition for the building’s design was awarded to the Warsaw-based architectural practice SAAW. A project of such considerable scale will clearly make its mark on the city skyline, which is why the choice was not an easy one. The jury’s decision has deeply divided public opinion, and the design is the subject of lively debate regarding the direction in which Polish architecture is heading.
The Contemporary Theatre in Szczecin – the jury’s assessment
The competition jury highly praised the way the building fits into the challenging surroundings of Łasztownia. In the jury’s view, the new Contemporary Theatre will bring order to the waterfront and give it a distinct composition. They also highlighted the consistency in references to the port’s history, evident in the stepped form of the structure and in the choice of materials, such as blackened steel and charred wood. The concept of openness was also of considerable importance. Glazing reveals the interiors and backstage areas of the theatre, bringing the institution’s activities into the city’s public space. The jury also noted the urban planning solutions, including the clear routing of pedestrian traffic towards the boulevards and the connection between the entrance square and the foyer. The project as a whole was recognised as a coherent concept with a distinct identity and high-quality architecture.
The neighbourhood and surroundings of the new development
The development site is located on Zbożowa Street, in the Nabrzeże Celne area and near the planned Kłodny Bridge crossing. For centuries, this area served as Szczecin’s port hinterland, separated from the prestigious Wały Chrobrego. The immediate surroundings of the planned development are exceptionally diverse in terms of scale and aesthetics. To the south of the site are car parks, the Lastadia Office building and the headquarters of the Tax Administration Chamber, which miraculously survived the extensive destruction of Szczecin during the Second World War. To the north runs Trasa Zamkowa, and right next to it stands the Prof. Jerzy Stelmach Maritime Science Centre, whose form is reminiscent of a moored ship. Each of these elements represents a different era and a different architectural language, which places high demands on the new theatre.
A form inspired by the port
The design by the SAAW studio is based on two clearly distinct volumes. One houses the Main and Chamber Stages, whilst the other houses the Community Stage. The stepped layout references the historic granaries and port warehouses that once dominated Łasztownia. The façade of the building is formed by a grid of blackened steel and charred wood, enhancing its raw, industrial character. During the day, the structure appears subdued and dark, whilst in the evening a warm light emanates from within, highlighting the wooden surfaces and golden accents.
The Contemporary Theatre in Szczecin – a public space
The new urban layout brings harmony between the buildings and the greenery. The space separating the two structures is lush with greenery. It is through this space that the main pedestrian route leads from the transport stops towards the boulevards along the Oder. The entrance square with a water feature extends the function of the foyer and encourages visitors to linger. The greenery filters the views and frames the perspectives onto the river, whilst the building itself directs pedestrians towards the most attractive sections of the waterfront.
The relationship between the architecture and the city
The foyers of both parts of the complex are situated on the river side, where the panorama of Wały Chrobrego provides a natural backdrop for events. Large glazed areas reveal the life of the theatre rather than concealing it. The layout of the stages allows them to be opened up, enabling performances to be staged outdoors. During the day, the Community Stage functions as a venue for workshops and local initiatives, whilst in the evening it transforms into a fully-fledged theatrical space. The boundary between the auditorium, the foyer and the boulevard becomes blurred, and culture permeates the life of the city.
Authors: SAAW Architekci
Collaborators: Obok Studio Martyna Dryś, Obok Studio Maciej Marszał, SAAW Architekci Emilia Sobańska
Visualisations: Mukko Studio
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