Located on the waterfront in Bregenz, the Festspielhaus was refurbished and extended in several stages to a multi-use complex boasting an event and convention centre. The exclusive architecture of the edifice defines its lakefront setting by creating a characteristic structure with its four highly plastic elevations.

The original building design, dating from 1979, appeared closed-off and its extension and transformation into a multi-use, inviting complex is not a mere play on forms, but rather approaches complex operational problems with a sophisticated solution. The liberating blow entered in form of a long and raised two-storey structure sporting administrative and production offices. Consequently, important existing and spacious cross-connections were maintained, and new ones emerged. The Festspielhaus has become a landmark that offers unrivalled vistas of the local mountain in Bregenz and of the Bodensee. This generous element is met by a second tall prism of similar dimensions that juts out over the main entrance and features the prominent Propter Homines Hall with its glazed front. The Seefoyer, whose name refers to the spectacular views through a wide glass façade, is located at the rear end of the building. The multi-unit foyer, welcoming large crowds of visitors, is placed between these two spatial poles.

The two striking large columnar elements of the building structure the spacious unit in three central areas: studios and workshops, the Großer Saal and the Seetribüne. The innovative and spacious block-shaped structures of the Werkstattbühne (Workshop Stage) and the Seestudio (Lake Studio), with its diffident façade against the backdrop of the adjacent lowland forest are grouped facing away from the main plaza. The plaza in front of the entrance façade is partly urban, part clearance on the lake. Split mastic-enforced, its south side is flanked by lowland forest trees that are grouped to form an appealing grove, inviting for a stroll. This contrast shapes the edifice’s identity that culminates in Gottfried Bechtold’s tall sculpture. The generous lobbies adjoining the plaza and the hall offer an ambience that is befitting of the cultural significance of the building. The newly designed Großer Saal whose walls and floor are clad with acacia wood, the suspended stainless steel ceiling and the seats with red upholstery conjure up a theater atmosphere with modern design elements.