The Coliseum, English National Opera

The auditorium is the centrepiece of the project. Restored to its original scheme of white, red and gold, with the marble and alabaster stripped of coats of paint, decorative swags and curtains were all reinstated as well as new seats for the auditorium and the integration of the balcony. From the balcony there is access to an external viewing point with fine views to St Martin-in-the-Fields and to Trafalgar Square.

The old plan had poor provision for toilets, inadequate bars, defective ventilation (especially in the orchestra pit), lack of disabled access and the presence of acoustic ‘black spots’ in the auditorium, whch were all redesigned for the restoration.

The new conservatory is s modern steel and glass structure that flattens out at the top as Matcham’s circular-vaulted original tower stands.

Structural improvements include; a new feature staircase from the foyer to the cloakrooms in the basement; a new floor at balcony level for a bar with views across Trafalgar Square and enlargement of the orchestra pit.