ROYAL OPERA HOUSE, COVENT GARDEN

The project comprises the refurbishment of the existing auditorium and foyers, accommodation for the Royal Opera and Royal Ballet including rehearsal facilities and a second auditorium, reconstruction of pan of the Floral Hall and a ribbon of shops around the piazza. When considering the appearance of the building and their relationship to the surrounding area, the whole project is brought together so that it can be seen as a coherent pan of the city.

The objectives of the project are:
  • to modernise the stage and scenery-handling facilities
  • to move the Royal Ballet from Baron's Court to a permanent home at Covent Garden
  • to improve amenities for the public and make the theatre more accessible
  • to provide a decent canteen for the staff and performers
  • to improve rehearsal facilities
  • to bring the production workshops on site
Facts and Figures
Building Contract 1st stage: Shops, James Street, completed 1992
Main construction: 1996 - 1999

Publications
Article from The Sunday Times, Culture Section, 20th September 1998
"It has cost ?214m to rebuild, but is it worth it? Hugh Pearman is the first to visit, and he says yes"

Arquitectonica February 1989