Logen Theater Bergen: Curtains up with metal mesh

With the renovation and extension of the Logen Theater, a traditional cultural institution in Bergen, Norway, has been given a striking architectural reinterpretation. Firmly anchored in the cultural scene of Western Norway since 1883, the building has long been a venue for music and entertainment. Today it serves the Det Vestnorske Teater as a stage for Nynorsk – a written language developed in the 19th century as an expression of national identity. The integration of a new theater space by the Architekturbüro 3RW Arkitekter, also from Bergen, brings history and the present together spatially and at the same time offers a space for cultural life in the historic center of Bergen.

Façade made of GKD TIGRIS metal mesh with symbolic power

The central design accent is on the outer building envelope: a semi-transparent metal curtain made of TIGRIS mesh from GKD spans the upper floors of the extension facing the pedestrian zone. However, the architectural mesh was installed in an atypical way: By rotating it by 90 degrees, it was possible to achieve a lively wave shape reminiscent of a stage curtain.

Technical precision for artistic freedom

The horizontal alignment of the mesh, which is normally used vertically, presented the planners with particular challenges. A customized, laser-cut and curved substructure was required. It enables the precise mounting of the wave-shaped fabric panels and ensures stability under the harsh climatic conditions of the Norwegian coast. A 1:1 mock-up was used to fine-tune all the technical details and helped to ensure that the installation was carried out efficiently and accurately.

Architectural mesh enables dynamic, depth and transparency

The mesh curtain allows specific insights into the interior. This creates an interplay of openness and screening that gives the building a special spatial depth. The result is a façade solution that gives the renovated and extended Logen Theater an aesthetic individuality and enriches the cityscape.

Technical details

• Location: Bergen, Norway
• Architect: 3RW Arkitekter
• Metal mesh: TIGRIS