A Breathtaking Opera House Covered by a Skirt-Like Solar Panel Roof

The renowned Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) has unveiled one of its most striking designs in recent years—a new opera house set for Kosovo. However, the visually stunning building will feature a sweeping roof inspired by a traditional local skirt, incorporating integrated solar panels.

In fact, commissioned by Kosovo’s government for the capital city of Pristina, the Opera and Ballet Theatre of Kosovo is being developed in partnership with local firm ALB-Architect. The project will cover an area of 42,395 sq m (456,403 sq ft).

Sustainable Design with Traditional Inspiration

The building will feature expansive wraparound glazing and a prominent use of timber. As previously mentioned, the curving roofline draws inspiration from the Xhubleta, a bell-shaped traditional folk skirt from Kosovo.

It will also include photovoltaic tiles to help minimize the building’s reliance on the power grid.

“We are deeply honored to be entrusted with designing the new home for the performing arts in a country known for its profound cultural contributions,” says Bjarke Ingels, founder of BIG.

Design Inspired by Artistic Efficiency and Kosovo’s Heritage

“Our design for the Opera and Ballet Theatre of Kosovo is conceived as an efficient space for creating artistic performances. The core structure is enveloped in a continuous canopy, forming an inviting public space that opens in all directions. The undulating roof mirrors the Xhubleta, Kosovo’s traditional national dress, creating a flowing, welcoming gesture.”

Spacious and Versatile Interior with Natural Light and Greenery

However, the interior will feature a 1,200-seat concert hall, a 1,000-seat theater hall, a 300-seat recital hall, a theater room, and an education and conference center. Moreover, a spacious lobby will be bathed in natural light from a central skylight, and the building will be surrounded by greenery and pathways.

The Opera and Ballet Theatre of Kosovo marks BIG’s second opera house project, following the unique bow tie-shaped National Theatre of Albania. The firm, which is in high demand, also recently unveiled its new headquarters in Denmark.

The completion date for the project has not yet been announced.

Read the original article on: New Atlas

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