Expertise

Conservation  

When a large electricity substation on the site had to be relocated during advance planning for the Metro North underground station on Parnell Square East, the longstanding accommodation needs of the theatre could finally be met.

The crisp, cubic, granite-clad form of the extension is wholly contemporary but complements the protected structure; a deep incision in the façade establishes the new parapet line while drawing attention to the delicate details of the 250-year-old doorway. A filigree of meranti hardwood slats, set within the window system, lends a suitably veiled light to the rehearsal room.

In addition to providing a foyer for the Pillar Room beneath the auditorium, a booking office, theatre archive, offices, workshop, goods lift and scene dock, the new wing is home to the Gate Theatre Laboratory – a mellow, tented, oak-paneled rehearsal space, identical in size to the main stage but with the addition of one row of seating.