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A theatre renovation or how do you fit a jet engine into a 19th-century icon?
Restoration of the Grand Théâtre de Verviers enters new phase
Some projects restore buildings. Others restore meaning. At the Grand Théâtre de Verviers, we are doing both. Two years after construction began, the project has reached a turning point: structural works are complete, the extension is nearly enclosed, and interior restoration has started. For us at BESIX Wust, together with Denys, this is the moment where the project shifts from heavy works to high precision, where every decision matters, and every detail counts.
Now comes the puzzle. The technical challenge is considerable. How do you install today’s comfort, safety and ventilation systems inside a building inaugurated in 1892, without disturbing its historic character? On site, that question becomes very concrete. New HVAC networks must find their way through protected interiors, around decorative elements and within existing structures that were never designed for modern building technologies. Pol Bartholomé, Project Manager at BESIX Wust: “It’s a bit like trying to fit an aircraft engine into a Citroën 2CV;” A bold comparison but an accurate one. This is construction at its most surgical: precise, restrained and deeply respectful of the original architecture.
Racing the season to protect timber, paintwork and restored decoration
The next milestone is already underway. With high-capacity electrical transformers now on site, the building should be heated before winter, essential to protect timber, paintwork and restored decorative finishes. If all goes to plan, the works will be completed by summer 2027, paving the way for a reopening in the following cultural season. The theatre will then combine its historic hall with a flexible new performance space. A place reborn, ready to welcome audiences once again.
Want to see how we bring heritage and innovation together?
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