<In Shanghai, a spectacular spiral opera house designed by Snøhetta is revealed — Art News
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In Shanghai, a spectacular spiral opera house designed by Snøhetta is revealed

À Shanghai, un spectaculaire opéra en spirale conçu par l’agence Snøhetta se dévoile

The Shanghai Grand Opera House, a massive 147,000-square-meter cultural landmark designed by the Norwegian architectural firm Snøhetta, has reached structural completion in the Houtan district. Inspired by the form of a traditional Chinese fan, the building features a dramatic white helical roof that doubles as a public walkway, connecting the urban landscape to the waterfront. The interior, which includes a 2,000-seat main hall and various modular spaces, is currently being finalized ahead of a scheduled opening in the second half of 2026.

This project is a cornerstone of Shanghai’s strategic ambition to solidify its status as a global cultural capital alongside cities like Paris and New York. By integrating public accessibility with high-performance performance spaces, Snøhetta continues its signature "architecture-landscape" approach previously seen in the Oslo Opera House. The inclusion of exhibition galleries and libraries within the complex underscores a modern shift toward multi-functional cultural hubs that serve as 24-hour public spaces rather than just traditional venues for the performing arts.