Project summary

Since its opening in 1996, the Ustinov Studio, which is housed in the Bath Theatre Royal building, has acquired a national reputation for its cutting-edge programming.

In June 2006, Charcoalblue and Haworth Tompkins architects were appointed to refurbish and redevelop the theatre. Our scheme hinged on the addition of a new balcony to the space, reducing the perceived depth of the room and increasing the intimacy and focus of the space.

The changes have created an almost completely new space, both in the foyer and the auditorium. Most notable from the outside is the new main entrance, enhancing the venue’s presence on Monmouth Street. Once inside the foyer, the audience now benefits from a spacious new foyer and a new staircase leading up to both of the new auditorium levels. A new lift provides the same access for wheelchair users.

The auditorium itself has undergone a spectacular overhaul, with a new stage, raised from the front row of seating, plus the creation of a new upper level for approximately 30 seats, ensuring better sightlines from the back of the auditorium and a sense of being nearer to the stage. The design has also provided renewed technical systems for lighting and sound, and improved rigging equipment over the stage area.