flexible wooden auditorium in argentinian college provides various configurations of the space

international architecture team GRHOUND has been commissioned to renovate a large disused venue of bahia blanca college of lawyers and barristers, argentina. the new auditorium space provides various configurations of the stage and seating and lights up the main façade of the neo-academic heritage building.

GRHOUND has introduced a new wooden panelled structure into the masonry frame, twice the pre-existing height, to form a double cavity. the new prism is adjusted in proportion to the overall structure, thereby managing to correct the dimensional irregularities of the original wall. 

a mezzanine floor with independent access overlooks the main hall from the balcony. the stage — the only solid element — organizes the distinct areas of the project. one of the lateral walls of the auditorium leans against the main façade; three high windows provide views across the foundational city square. on the opposite side, linearly coinciding with these three windows, three access ways are opened up towards the pre-existing foyer reached by marble floor stairs and old iron balusters with cedar wood banisters.

a harmonious balance was achieved between modern architecture and the original academy. the final result is a pleasing blend of the original appearance and building methods used at the beginning of the last century, and new technologies needed to reach the current building standards and quality required for the space.

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edited by: maria erman | designboom