The new theatre building fits into the urban context and complements the silhouette of the riverbank with a light, calm, semi-transparent façade. It occupies Bahnhofstrasse with addresses and functions and integrates the theatre square into the building as a foyer. The Stadt|theater am Theaterquai becomes an urban and cultural focal point on the Reuss. The theatre building is maximally flexible and offers a wide variety of staging possibilities, while enriching the public space in many ways.

The left bank of the Reuss has a turbulent past with the Jesuit Church and the Kapellerbrücke as defining elements. The new theatre project subtly responds to the spatially and historically complex situation. It fits into the edge of the Gründerzeit block and completes the historic river façade. Bahnhofstrasse once again becomes the main address and front zone, while the view of the Jesuit Church is preserved. The building is precisely set and sensitive in its treatment of neighbourhoods, relationships and views.

The transparent volume is used in a variety of ways and opens up to the city. Bahnhofstrasse becomes an art boulevard with café, restaurant, ticketeria, shop and foyers. The main foyer offers a unique view of the Reuss River and the church side façade. The building communicates with the neighbourhood on all sides and has no pure backs.

The use of the theatre is designed to be flexible and functionally functional. The halls are arranged around the stage tower and offer maximum flexibility. The large auditorium for 600 spectators is column-free and has optimal sightlines. Two further surrounding aisles complement the hall. The middle auditorium for 300-350 people allows for maximum depth and can also be used independently of the large auditorium. The studio is a flexible black box on the city floor. Together, the halls form a sculptural figure that is enveloped by a curtain-like façade.

The logistics and access to the theatre are well thought out. Delivery is via Theaterstrasse and there are sufficient ramps available. Public and backstage areas are clearly separated. The foyer is accessible to all visitors, and short routes allow easy access to the auditoriums. The building’s supporting structure is an integral part of the architectural design. The façade is permeable and symbolically opens the building to the public.