In the spring of 2004, Paul de Ruiter Architects won the commission to design a theater in the Zuidoost district of Amsterdam. The Bijlmer Park Theater was to become a multifunctional building for four occupants: Circus Elleboog, Krater Theater, the Youth Theater School, and the Theater Workshop.
The urban development plan stipulated that the Bijlmer Park Theatre should be located in the heart of the Bijlmer district, on the border between Bijlmerpark and the new Anton de Komplein. This location will boost cultural and socio-economic development in the surrounding area. It also marks the starting point of a new cultural axis that connects the various cultural facilities of ArenAPoort.
The Bijlmer Park Theatre has an elliptical shape, with the floors slightly offset from each other. This creates a covered entrance. The building's shape, however, necessitated the search for a financially viable, partially glazed facade. The solution was found in a combination of vertical wooden slats and corrugated steel sheets. The theatre stands out during the day thanks to its shape, while at night it stands out thanks to its color, which can be adjusted on occasion through the use of LEDs.
The client emphasized the need for daylight in the main hall. Classes and rehearsals would also be held in this hall during the day, and good daylight is crucial for the atmosphere and orientation. Therefore, a wall of windows was created on the first floor around the main hall. This solution maximizes natural light and allows parents and other interested parties to attend rehearsals and classes without disruption. During performances, the windows can be blacked out.