Preserving and Innovating – The Littmann-Bau
The magnificent Littmann-Bau, located at the Upper Palace Gardens, serves as the centerpiece of the Württembergische Staatstheater. The historic structure, known as the “Opera House,” along with its adjacent administrative building, urgently requires comprehensive renovation, modernization, and expansion. The construction of a new scenery building at this site will ensure the future viability of the State Theaters.
The last renovation of the listed Littmann-Bau was almost 40 years ago. At that time, only the interior was reconstructed according to historical models, and the so-called Böhm Pavilion was erected. The current imperative is to preserve the Littmann-Bau for future generations and simultaneously integrate it more effectively into the urban fabric.
Without renovation, the facility faces operational closure. The technical systems date back to the 1980s, and the working conditions for the approximately 1,400 employees no longer meet current standards, particularly in the workshops and the stage and orchestra areas. Under current conditions, re-certification of these workplaces would not be feasible. Modernization is therefore imperative.
In addition to the urgently required technical renewal, the renovation aims to improve the building's integration into its urban environment and create more space for visitors and staff. The objective is to maintain the attractiveness and future viability of the Württembergische Staatstheater, thereby enabling them to reach a new, younger audience.
The implementation of this sub-project is closely linked to the interim location in Maker City and the new construction of the workshops near the Zuckerfabrik. The renovation at the Oberer Schlossgarten can only commence once these two locations are operational.
Project Status
The architectural competition for the listed Littmann Ensemble has commenced its first round. From numerous applications, 30 planning teams from across Europe have qualified to address the competition brief.
The competition is structured into two phases. In the first phase, the selected architectural firms have until April 2026 to develop their designs. In May 2026, during the first jury meeting, the number of participating firms for the second design phase will be reduced by half. By the end of 2026, the high-profile jury will select the winning designs. The objective is to identify the optimal architectural design and the most suitable planning team for the realization of this century-defining project.
In doing so, the requirements of modern theatrical operations, urban planning conditions, and economic viability must all be optimally considered.
Concurrently, the State Capital of Stuttgart is processing a development plan procedure to establish the legal planning basis for the project's realization.
The reopening after renovation is, according to the current preliminary schedule, planned for the early 2040s.