Pathé-ArenA multiplex cinema, Amsterdam Zuidoost

The commissioner of this multiplex cinema wanted a practical closed box without any trimmings that would accommodate as many cinemas as possible. The box-like structure with 14 screens is rationally and efficiently organized so that two operators are sufficient to keep all the auditoria running smoothly. Elevating the biggest cinema freed up the space for a spectacular street-level entrance. The illuminated glass stairway with a tumbling cascade of colours gives visitors a fleeting sense of being stars themselves. This transforms the entrance into a grand foyer, proceeding in one sweeping gesture via the stairway to the auditoriums. The glazed incision in the façade exploits the foyer’s spatial gesture to maximum effect.