Glass house with room for experimenting

The Aveny-T theatre on Frederiksberg Allé in central Copenhagen has a long history, but with a new extension – known as ‘Væksthuset’ – it also stands out as a venue that is in tune with the times, while appealing to younger audiences.

‘Væksthuset’ – which literally means the hot house – is the name of the theatre’s new and modern extension, which is respectfully set back slightly from the classic yellow facade which has fronted the theatre building since 1919. Architecturally, 170 years separate the two buildings, and yet they have been successfully integrated. Væksthuset is a light and airy glass building built from steel and with a mezzanine floor overlooking the street. It functions as a large and flexible auditorium that can be divided up by means of curtains as required. Rails in the ceiling make it possible to establish floating stages.

There are two new entrances and a foyer that connects the theatre’s existing foyer with the large space. The balcony is designed as a study and workplace for cultural entrepreneurs but can also be used as a stage or for seating.

Vertical lines

The theatre’s main focus is on attracting young people to the world of theatre, and young artists are therefore given the opportunity to make theatre for other young people. While flexibility is crucial for the development of new ideas and productions, the acoustics are always paramount for a positive theatre experience, and both the ceiling and wall surfaces are therefore clad in sound-absorbing materials. 

Troldtekt line has been used on the back wall of the stage and in the stairwell to the balcony as well as in the existing foyer, where the vertical grooves beautifully reflect Væksthuset’s inherent verticality, as do the long curtains. The upper part of the facade overlooking Frederiksberg Allé is made of tombac with elegant vertical mouldings, many of varying length. Thus, a fine connection has been created between the interior and exterior architecture.