Betty Nansen theater

“A loggia is an arcade supported by columns or pillars. The concept originates from Italian architecture, where the loggia is often an open gallery or corridor at ground level. Sometimes, however, loggias can be seen positioned higher on the facade. Particularly famous is Brunelleschi’s loggia at the Ospedale degli Innocenti in Florence. The word is also used to refer to a balcony that is inside a building, often at the gable, where the house’s roof extends over the balcony, or where the balcony is simply built into the facade.”

Betty Nansen Theatre is a vision to create a culturally outward-looking destination on Frederiksberg Allé that reflects the identity of theatrical art. The building has been extended and remodelled several times since 1888. In our proposal, we attempt to find a sense of completeness that presents the theater as a modern venue with a cohesive and respectful experience of the building.

A DIALOGUE BETWEEN NEW AND OLD

In the proposal, the existing building facade is “cleaned” of the extensions that have appeared over the last 100 years. The old facade will again appear in its entirety, as it did in 1904, when the prominent balcony was first introduced.

A new loggia is added as a simple, new element that is in clear dialogue with the old building. The loggia is a significant architectural feature in many historic theaters. The loggia allows the details and profile of the old facade to be seen through it. It creates a distinctive, high-ceilinged, open, and inviting space that connects to Frederiksberg Allé.

CREATING FLEXIBLE SPACES

This new space – where the old facade is staged – offers the opportunity to bring in sunlight from the south. It is designed for flexible use, accommodating a variety of activities such as balcony scenes, a café, and a foyer during performances, while also allowing the historic facade to be highlighted through effective lighting design.

Culture

Transformation

Public

Private

Planning