projects | Viabizzuno progettiamo la luce

built in 1983, theatre du bussel, which also incorporates the theek5 library, is undoubtedly one of the most significant structures in the cultural framework of oosterhout, dutch city of the northern brabant region with over 50,000 inhabitants. after assessing its inadequacy to meet the modern needs of the city, the municipal government decided to entrust the architecture firms 3to architecten and dp6 with the task of restoring the theatre. the project developed by the two architecture firms had thoroughly renovated the building by making it a symbol of the cultural development of the little town, perfectly integrated in an urban context dominated by the oosterhout basilica. this effect was also achieved by selecting a shaded colour for the façade, similar to the colour of the external flooring. its wavy façade has been designed to recall the idea of a big tent, while turf has been installed on the roof to considerably please the looks of anybody who observes the structure from the windows of the private buildings or hotels in the vicinities. the connection with nature is one of the most distinguishing features of the theatre. being located in an area traditionally filled with trees, the designers let themselves be inspired by these natural shapes at a structural and symbolic level as well. the load-bearing columns of the hall, in fact, have been designed the shape of a tree and prints of the local flora have been placed along the walls. the restoration work was completed in october 2015. today the building houses a wide and modern room with 500 seats and a new room with 200 seats. in addition to that, the existing foyer was extended with an area where Viabizzuno recessed lights integrated in the false ceiling added volume to the entire architecture. the basic lighting system consists of customized 070 profiles with eco led spots that cross the entire building from side to side, to unite the two intended uses (library and theatre) into a single visible building. the dark crevices enlightened by spotlights recall the light beams used in theatres and are completed by thin m13 spotlights with 13x8 led light lines and signoria suspension luminaires that create ambience light and favour the visibility of the building form outside, thus inviting passers-by to stop en enter to see which shows are on the program, linger in the literary coffee shop or visit an exhibition. that is how de bussel has become oosterhout’s sitting-room.