the ‘cabaret onirique’ is a freycinet barge transformed into a theater under the guidance of french studio spray architecture. 40 meters long and 5 meters wide, the barge was built in 1936 and now is moored in strasbourg. above the black hull, a superstructure allows the distribution of different spaces on 2 levels — it is composed of a wood frame and a metal insulated cover complex, while its roof is designed to be removable.

spray architecture turns a barge into a two-level cabaret in strasbourg
the regular pattern of standing zinc joints plays with the curtain wall of the library

 

 

divided into 5 frames, the roof can be removed with a crane so that the boat can be moved easily. covered in natural zinc cladding, this purist volume mixes simple geometry with an industrial aesthetic reminiscent of the boat’s original function. the regular pattern of standing zinc joints plays with the curtain wall of the library designed by the architects ibos & vitart, on the background of the barge. this raw outside contrasts with the cabaret’s interior, which is entirely conceived in red and gold.

spray architecture turns a barge into a two-level cabaret in strasbourg
cabaret onirique in front of the andre malraux library

 

 

from the dock, the visitors get to the bar area — this level is on the balcony above the stage in the hold of the boat. inspired by italian theaters, this space offers the audience a bird’s eye view of the scenic space. the double height volume above allows different types of happenings and sets.

spray architecture turns a barge into a two-level cabaret in strasbourg
the terrace and the cranes

 

spray architecture turns a barge into a two-level cabaret in strasbourg
the terrace

 

spray architecture turns a barge into a two-level cabaret in strasbourg
double height space above the stage

 

spray architecture turns a barge into a two-level cabaret in strasbourg
the 2 levels seen from the stage

 

spray architecture turns a barge into a two-level cabaret in strasbourg
balcony inspired by italian theaters

 

spray architecture turns a barge into a two-level cabaret in strasbourg
light effects

 

spray architecture turns a barge into a two-level cabaret in strasbourg
the bar

 

spray architecture turns a barge into a two-level cabaret in strasbourg
thibaut rassat’s illustration

 

spray architecture turns a barge into a two-level cabaret in strasbourg
elevation of the stern

 

spray architecture turns a barge into a two-level cabaret in strasbourg
axonometry with the removable roof

 

project info:

 

name: cabaret onirique

architects: spray architecture

location: strasbourg, france

area: 165 sqm

illustrations: thibaut rassat 

photography: lucas matagne

 

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

 

edited by: maria erman | designboom