ABDR completes Zubin Mehta auditorium at Teatro del Maggio Fiorentino

Ten years after the inauguration of the Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, its new auditorium named after conductor Zubin Mehta has been completed. Designed by ABDR Architetti Associati, the 1,100-seat hall is part of the music complex near Parco delle Cascine. Construction took 900 days, 700 of which occurred during the pandemic, without closing the theater. The hall features exceptional acoustics, thanks to German acoustic engineer Jürgen Reinhold, and flexibility: the stage can transform into an orchestra pit, and the choir space can become seating. Environmentally sustainable materials were used, including ekumè wood panels. The opening was marked by a visit from Italian President Sergio Mattarella. The foyer, named after philanthropist Maria Manetti Shrem, is now brighter. Artworks and lighting fixtures by Carlo Scarpa, Bruno Innocenti, Gianni Vagnetti, and Mario Moschi have been reinstalled. Mayor Nardella stated the pandemic did not defeat the city, with full completion expected by end of 2022, including mobile bridges, restaurants, and underground parking.