The spaces which previously housed the two pools have been re-configured and extended to accommodate two new stages with audience capacities of 300 and 150. Retractable bleacher seating enables both stages to increase capacity and provide flexible formats appropriate to the performance.

Both stages incorporate natural daylighting with the largest stage having a fully glazed rear wall. The glazing affords the audience views of the fjords beyond as a backdrop to performance whilst a black-out blinds system ensures user flexibility.

These stage acoustic linings have been fine-tuned and meticulously detailed in close collaboration with the project acoustician to optimise performance. Retractable bleachers are stored below the balcony in each stage and maximise flexibility of the stages. Two double-height rehearsal rooms are accommodated on the 1st floor with large, punched openings providing views out towards the city centre.

Stainless steel sheet that once tanked the two swimming pools has been meticulously catalogued and salvaged for reuse within the building. The painted lane lines will be retained as part of its reuse as a reference to the building’s previous use.

The project has balanced the needs of the two dance organisations with the adaptive reuse of an existing building. The retained structure is expressed in its raw form internally whilst the external envelope has been upgraded to improve building performance.

The project will create a new cultural and performing arts centre for the City of Bergen that both celebrates and respects the original architecture. It will provide an inspiring meeting place that supports cultural exchange, artistic expression, and public engagement, while also accommodating high-quality workplaces.

The architecture will express its civic and cultural role creating a welcoming environment for a diverse range of users and activities and reinforcing its place as an important cultural landmark within the city.