The unique nature of the Sachsfoyer has rightly been noted. Only the equally impressive guidance of the public from the street to the entrance through the hall, up the stairs to the Sachsfoyer and on into the auditorium creates the effect. The extension project had to reflect both of these aspects. Since 1955, extensions have been carried out to adapt the building, which was originally built as a summer theatre, for all-year use. As a result of this and the increased spatial requirements (around 50% more room), the building is in danger of losing its original finely balanced nature.

The project takes the unique spatial figure of paths and rooms seriously by ignoring the monument preservation office's requirement that the Sachsfoyer must not be affected. Instead, the idea of an inner landscape, already inherent in this light space with its stairway connections, is picked up on and reflected further. Like a gem, the foyer is newly contained, lovingly enveloped and unfolded to create a single hall, rather than the two requested foyers. The existing structure leads the way for the extension, in a spatial, atmospheric and material issues.

The foyer’s expansion is faced by the growth of the theatre itself. Today’s programme of rooms, including several main and auxiliary buildings, is newly pooled into one compact structure. Despite the great expansion, the building moves from one balanced form to a new one. The image remains familiar. At the same time, it maintains its urban significance and presence, as is appropriate for such a place and its importance.

The cyclops eye in the rehearsal room situated at the top of the extended stage tower creates a relationship with the landscape beyond the River Limmat.
The prize jury recognised the significance and advantages of such productive disobedience.