Barcelona to get new Carmen Thyssen museum-with around a quarter of space devoted to retail

"The museum will occupy the former Comèdia cinema, an ornate building in the Eixample district facing onto the Passeig de Gràcia, one of Barcelona's busiest thoroughfares. Originally constructed as a residence, it was transformed into a theatre in the 1930s and became home to the Comèdia in 1960. Long a well-known landmark, the cinema shut last year after years of declining ticket sales."

"Under the plan, the site will be reworked by German practice Casper Mueller Kneer Architects and Barcelona firm OUA. Two cuboid blocks of six and nine storeys will be constructed behind the iconic façade, expanding the building's floorspace by 45% to nearly 10,000 sq. m. In addition to display space, the design includes a 450-seat auditorium, shops, a restaurant and spaces for educational activities. They will account for roughly 25% of the total surface area."

Barcelona councillors approved converting the former Comèdia cinema on Passeig de Gràcia into a Carmen Thyssen museum. The ornate Eixample building, originally a residence and later a theatre, closed after years of falling ticket sales. The redevelopment by Casper Mueller Kneer Architects and OUA will add two cuboid blocks, increasing floorspace by 45% to nearly 10,000 sq. m. The scheme includes display galleries, a 450-seat auditorium, shops, a restaurant and educational spaces that together represent about 25% of the area. Private investor Stoneweg financed the purchase and plans significant redevelopment investment. The museum will house works from Carmen Thyssen’s collection, including Spanish and international art.

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