Lyric Theatre by O’Donnell + Tuomey

A theatre in Belfast with a faceted timber interior is another of the six buildings shortlisted for the 2012 Stirling Prize and was designed by Irish architects O’Donnell + Tuomey (+ slideshow).

Lyric Theatre by O'Donnell + Tuomey

The Lyric Theatre is located on the edge of the River Lagan in the south of the city and is constructed from the same red brick as the surrounding residential terraces.

Lyric Theatre by O'Donnell + Tuomey

The building replaces a 1960′s theatre that occupied the site previously and the new plan follows the outline of the irregularly shaped site.

Lyric Theatre by O'Donnell + Tuomey

A multi-level atrium connects the entrance with the 389-seat auditorium, where the faceted iroko wood lining integrates stage lighting and improves acoustics.

Lyric Theatre by O'Donnell + Tuomey

The building also contains a performance studio for up to 170 spectators and a rehearsal room that matches the size of the auditorium stage.

Lyric Theatre by O'Donnell + Tuomey

This year O’Donnell + Tuomey also completed a photography gallery in London.

Lyric Theatre by O'Donnell + Tuomey

Other architects nominated for the Stirling Prize include OMA and David ChipperfieldSee all the nominations here »

Lyric Theatre by O'Donnell + Tuomey

Photography is by Dennis Gilbert.

Here’s a little more from O’Donnell + Tuomey’s website:


The Lyric Theatre stands on a sloping site at triangular junction between the grid pattern of Belfast’s brick streetscape and the serpentine parkland of the River Lagan.

Lyric Theatre by O'Donnell + Tuomey

The architectural design was developed in response to the urban and landscape conditions of the site.

Lyric Theatre by O'Donnell + Tuomey

The building site was tightly restricted and irregular in shape. The budget was strictly limited. All the building materials are selected to endure and crafted to weather with age.

Lyric Theatre by O'Donnell + Tuomey

The new building replaces a substandard structure built in the 1960s.

Lyric Theatre by O'Donnell + Tuomey

The building is the result of an open architectural competition held in May 2003, and eight years immersion in the complex process of briefing, design, fund-raising, demolition and construction.

Lyric Theatre by O'Donnell + Tuomey

Area: 5,500 sqm
Completion Date: May 2011

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