September 5, 2024 marked exactly 10 years since the opening of the iconic building of the Szczecin Philharmonic at Małopolska 48. The glacial form of the Philharmonic, which was created in 2014, was quickly named an architectural icon of Szczecin. The design by the Spanish studio Estudio Barozzi Veiga has won many architectural awards, including the most important in the field of contemporary architecture, the Mies van der Rohe Award 2015.

Architecture

The building is distinguished by courage and lightness, and at the same time it creates a coherent line with the surrounding neo-Gothic buildings. The interior of the Philharmonic offers over 12,000 square meters of space, spread over four floors, in which there are, among others, two concert halls, two art galleries, a cafe, a spacious lobby and a foyer.

The Symphony Hall can accommodate nearly 1000 people while the special design of the walls and ceilings developed by architects Dr. Higini Arau, a Barcelona specialist in the field of architectural acoustics, provides excellent acoustic experience. The Chamber Hall for nearly 200 people is often referred to as a ‘musical pearl’.

Outside facade of the new Philharmonic in Szczecin is formed with white glass and vertically arranged rectangular aluminum profiles, discontinued only in the place of scarce window and door openings. Inventive structure of the building attracts attention of every passer-by The authors of the new Philharmonic in Szczecin designed a two-layer facade of the building, in which 25 thousand LED light fittings are hidden. Effects of this may be admired especially at night, when the building glows with a subtle light.

Architects have also planned colourful illumination of building’s facade that enables creation of various light scenarios, used for special events and occasions. For every-day illumination, homogeneous light dispersed across the building’s glass surface looks equally impressive, reminding of a shining lantern.

Events

In addition to regular symphonic activities, the Philharmonic has in its schedule events that deviate from the conventional thinking of a philharmonic as a musical institution. Often, events held here present a mixture of forms of artistic expression: painting exhibitions, graphics, photographs, film screenings, happenings, performances, sound and video installations, and also concerts presenting various musical genres.

Outside facade of the new Philharmonic in Szczecin is formed with white glass and vertically arranged rectangular aluminum profiles, discontinued only in the place of scarce window and door openings. Inventive structure of the building attracts attention of every passer-by The authors of the new Philharmonic in Szczecin designed a two-layer facade of the building, in which 25 thousand LED light fittings are hidden. Effects of this may be admired especially at night, when the building glows with a subtle light.

Architects have also planned colourful illumination of building’s facade that enables creation of various light scenarios, used for special events and occasions. For every-day illumination, homogeneous light dispersed across the building’s glass surface looks equally impressive, reminding of a shining lantern.

The Philharmonic building hosted, among others, the visit of the King of Denmark, ceremonies related to the opening of the Baltic Pipe, the 20th anniversary of the NATO International Corps, anniversaries of international companies or state institutions, all kinds of industry meetings.

Selected awards for the Philharmonic

2014

• The Main Award: the Object of 25th anniversary-The Symbol of Transformation | Westival 2014 / City of Szczecin, Szczecin branch of the the Association of Polish Architects
• Eurobuild Awards 2014 | the category of Architectural Design of the Year | the monthly magazine „Eurobuild Central and Eastern Europe”

2015

• Designs of the Year |the category: architecture | London’s Design Museum
• The Award of the President of Poland – Grand Prix | category: the award for the Best Architectural Building in Poland constructed in 2013-2014 | Life in Architecture /monthly magazine „Architektura Murator”
• Mies van der Rohe Award 2015 | category: the contemporary architecture | European Union

2021

• Honourable mention in the publication by BOSZ titled "Poland. Heritage and Modernity," an album dedicated to places worth visiting, with a special emphasis on sites inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

2023

• Recognition among the 200 most significant works of contemporary architecture worldwide | C.guide
• Gold Medal „Meritorious for Culture of Gloria Artis” for Symphony Orchestra of Mieczysław Karłowicz Philharmonic in Szczecin | The vice President of Council of Ministers, Minister of Culture and National Heritage, PhD Piotr Gliński

Another artistic season full of unforgettable emotions

The 10th anniversary of the building of the Szczecin Philharmonic is a unique opportunity to celebrate both the past and the future of the institution, which has become a cultural symbol of the city. Throughout the upcoming artistic season 2024/2025, thanks to carefully planned events, every music lover will have the chance to participate in exceptional concerts that will remain in the memory for a long time.

As every year, the Philharmonic has prepared a rich program of symphonic and chamber concerts, as well as exceptional events. We will hear both classical works by great composers and innovative compositions by contemporary artists. Special performances by guest artists from all over the world are also among the season’s highlights.

The detailed repertoire is available on the Philharmonic’s website: filharmonia.szczecin.pl and tickets are on sale.

source: Szczecin Convention Bureau; photo credits: Filharmonia w Szczecinie