Inside-out
Opera house milan
Y.P. van Terheijden (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
H. Smidihen – Mentor (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
M.R. Grech – Mentor (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
J.A. van de Voort – Mentor (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
B. Lubelli – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
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Abstract
How did theatres shift from city stages to hidden spaces? Despite opera’s historical role as a socially cohesive art form, it has shifted toward exclusivity over centuries, detaching from everyday public life. This study examines La Scala as a case for rethinking opera house design to contribute to the social accessibility and cultural relevance of opera in contemporary society. Drawing on historical analysis, architectural theory, and case studies of contemporary theatres, the research proposes spatial strategies to transform the opera house into an inclusive cultural venue. By reimagining the opera house layout and exploring new audience-stage relationships, this project aims to position La Scala as an open, accessible site, fostering dialogue and engagement within the society. The study culminates in a design brief for a new opera house for La Scala, integrating opera in the modern sociocultural dynamics and addressing the role of opera within the city.