Snøhetta’s Grand Opera Hall in Shangahai Is Set To Open in Late 2026

Summary

• Snøhetta’s Shanghai Grand Opera House is nearing completion
• The project features sweeping public spaces, rooftop access, and acoustically optimized performance halls
• Scheduled to open in late 2026, it will host diverse performances and community programs

Snøhetta’s Grand Opera House in Shanghai is now approaching completion, marking a major milestone in the city’s cultural development. First commissioned after winning an international competition in 2017, the project has been designed in collaboration with East China Architectural Design & Research Institute, Theatre Projects and Nagata Acoustics. Positioned prominently along the Huangpu River, the Opera House is envisioned as a bold cultural destination that will host a wide range of performances – from traditional opera and orchestral concerts to contemporary and experimental works – cementing its role as a landmark within Shanghai’s evolving cultural masterplan.

The building’s design emphasizes openness and accessibility, with a sweeping form that integrates public spaces and a rooftop accessible to visitors. This gesture reinforces the Opera House’s role not only as a performance venue but also as a civic gathering place. Inside, the architecture has been carefully shaped to optimize acoustics and audience experience, with Nagata Acoustics contributing to the refinement of sound quality. The Opera House also incorporates exhibition areas, educational facilities, a library, cinema and dining spaces, ensuring its function extends beyond performance to become a hub for cultural exchange and community engagement.

With its striking riverside presence and multi-layered design, Snøhetta’s Grand Opera House will stand as both an architectural icon and a symbol of the city’s ambition to be a leading center for culture and creativity. As construction nears completion, the Opera House is on track to open to the public in the second half of 2026.