Zenith music hall by architects Massimiliano and Doriana Fuksas has opened in Strasbourg, France.
Like a gigantic paper lantern, the Zenith Music Hall features a highly unusual façade of accordion-like folds of fabric on a steel frame which, when lit from within, gives off a warm glow. This membrane doesn’t just provide spectacular lighting effects, but plays a role in the all-important acoustics of the hall.
The interior and exterior of the structure are covered with translucent, orange fabric so the building appears solid in daylight but reveals its internal structure when illuminated at night.
The hall seats 10,000. Projections on the textile skin act as advertisements for current performances. By its playful form and character, the Zenith music hall contributes to the great Varietee Theaters which were built since the Zenith building in Paris was erected in 1984.
The concept of the design is based on a modular and a well balanced organization of the different elements: good views for all spectators, best acoustics and an optimized cost management already addressed during the concept phase of the design. The Zenith music hall provides ideal facilities for the guests and the artist performing.
The building is to be understood as a single, unifying and autonomous sculpture. By layering and rotating the ellipsoid metal façade structure, the design receives a very dynamic character.
This is the heart of the building: a totally enclosed and protected space, which creates a special theatre atmosphere.
Projections on the outer skin create playful effects and convert the façade into a huge billboard communicating with the passers-by for upcoming events.
The inner experience is transmitted to the outside through the transparent skin: the whole building becomes a “light sculpture”.
