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ALBI GRAND THEATER BY DOMINIQUE PERRAULT ARCHITECTURE

A smart hint of modernity in the iconic city of Albi

What’s so pleasant about France is all those southern little towns that have preserved their picturesque and traditional architecture. What is even better is when a hint of modern architecture is added to the mix. If it’s well done, it can contrast subtly with the tradition while reminding us of our present.

That is exactly the feeling conveyed by Albi’s Grand Theater. This little town in the South-West of France is well known for its fierce attachment to its heritage and culture. So, including a modern building in the mix was bold to say the least. However, there is no doubt French architect Dominique Perrault satisfied everyone with this Grand Theater.

The building is surrounded by a semi transparent metallic veil that has a outstanding effect on the building. During the day, it reflects the sunlight beautifully and gives the Grand Theater a very modern and smooth shape but that’s not all. Indeed, the metal used also gives a coherence of hue between the new building and the rest of the brick buildings in the town.

But at night, the metallic veil fades away and reveals the building behind it. The distorted geometric shape becomes a shadow that cuts the corners of the beautiful theater. A smart hint of modernity in the iconic city of Albi.

ALBI GRAND THEATER BY DOMINIQUE PERRAULT ARCHITECTURE

Details

  • Albi, France
  • Dominique Perrault Architecture