This major project will see the dramatic transformation of the auditorium interior at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon and the addition of the largest courtyard theatre in the world. Public areas will also be significantly enhanced.

There are various challenges with this extensive project, including issues with the riverside location and ground conditions, along with the need to create an energy efficient and sustainable building. Despite the challenging ground conditions, it has been possible to create a seven metre deep basement allowing the actors and props to appear from under the stage.

Although the existing theatre will be demolished, the 1930s art deco facade will remain, along with the smaller Swan Theatre, fly tower, foyer and picture gallery. Inside the new 1,030 seat auditorium, which will be constructed within the shell of the existing theatre, the key feature will be the impressive thrust stage - designed to bring the audience closer to the actors.

The design team also faced stiff challenges in relation to limiting the building’s carbon footprint. Theatres are traditionally high energy users due to production demands; but the target carbon reduction of 20% was achieved by utilising a 350kW ground source heat pump (GSHP) system which is capable of providing the base heating and cooling loads.