19 July 2011
Renovation and Modernisation of the Cologne Theatres
Interim Report: Architectural and Urban Concept

The Cologne Theatres - client, the HPP Architects and theapro working group – architect and WES – landscape architect today presented their interim report on progress on the design for the renovation of the Cologne Opera Quarter to the Opera Quarter sub-committee of the City of Cologne Council. The current status of the planning procedure is mainly concerned with the design for the external facades of the Opera Quarter buildings and was therefore agreed with the Historical Monuments Department and the General Director of the Opera and Schauspiel. The design consists of renovation and technical upgrading of both opera and theatre as well as the provision of a children’s opera and a “mini theatre” on the former site of the Opera Terrace.

Significant items of the renovation include roofing in the stage depot in the Krebsgasse, providing rehearsal stages between the opera workshop towers as well as transforming the Opera Terrace. This transformation, however, will retain their pavilion-like character through the use of glass facades and giving the use of the space facing onto the Offenbachplatz over to restaurants and bars with open-air seating.