King's Theatre, Edinburgh

Theatreplan was selected to work with the architects, Bennetts Associates on the renovation of the Grade A listed King's Theatre in Edinburgh. The architectural designs for the redevelopment theatre retain the majesty of the original building but reimagine it for the 21st century. It is the only surviving operational theatre by the architects Swanston and Davidson.

The transformational project will preserve and revitalise the theatre, making it a vibrant, dynamic and accessible cultural destination for generations to come. Theatreplan’s experience working on historic theatres is proving invaluable in planning the repair, enhancement and expansion of one of Scotland’s oldest working theatres.

When we started work, it quickly became clear that the original feasibility study (by others) hadn’t fully responded to the client’s operational challenges, aspirations, design requirements, or budget. Given the risk in proceeding without a fully formed and properly costed project brief, we were brought in to fully document the requirements to an appropriate level of detail. We engaged in a series of site visits and workshops with Capital Theatres’ staff and key stakeholders. The process had to be managed to ensure everybody’s voice was heard and this was a challenging but ultimately fruitful exercise.

Engagement and workshops have continued throughout the design process, and our working relationship with the client, staff and stakeholders continues to develop. This resulted in a robust, on budget, RIBA Stage 3 scheme, where the users participated in the decision making, debated options when compromise or prioritisation was necessary and fully understand the proposals. We continued with technical design at RIBA Stage 4 once the funding for the project was secured.

Theatreplan is providing technical infrastructure services and is responsible for upgrading the fly tower and counterweight system, improving grid access, levelling the stage, improving Front of House lighting positions, upgrading technical infrastructure, and improving the get-in. The interiors and exterior of the theatre are being overhauled to enrich the audience experience and create a renewed sense of destination.

Transformation of the King’s will reinvigorate the artistic programme, by providing the appropriate facilities to attract the widest range and highest quality productions to the city. The development will ensure the theatre can meet the needs of today’s audiences, and today’s performers, and will safeguard it for generations to come. The theatre will re-open in 2025.