Reconstruction and extension of the Juliusz Osterwa Theatre in Lublin

The location of the Theatre within the historic centre of Lublin creates the potential to revitalise the surrounding streets. For this reason, all city-forming functions have been placed at ground-floor level: the foyer of the new stage with a ticket office accessed from Peowiaków Street, as well as a café opening onto both the internal courtyard and Kapucyńska Street. The historic foyer remains the main entrance to the Theatre; however, the new additions form an open structure oriented towards the city, clearly signalling access to the new stage and to the courtyard.

The new stage zone is located on the part of the site facing Peowiaków Street, ensuring optimal functional connections with the existing stage. Its volume fills an urban interior defined by tall, blind surrounding walls. The intimate courtyard opens towards Kapucyńska Street, which in the future may become an attractive pedestrian route linking Litewski Square with the Theatre. In this location, the theatre volume accommodates social functions—such as a café and co-working studios—closing the street frontage while simultaneously creating an inviting urban façade that signals the possibility of entering the courtyard from the north.

On a daily basis, the courtyard functions as a recreational garden for residents and theatre staff, referencing the former monastic garden that once occupied the site. This green interior acts as an extension of the foyer and may serve as a space for reflection and social interaction after performances. The proposed layout also allows for the installation of a mobile stage with direct access to backstage facilities and audience seating, enabling the organisation of outdoor events.

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