The new Mariinsky Opera House is part of an addition to the historic Mariinsky Theatre, the famous home of the Kirov Opera and Ballet. "Mariinsky II". As it is being called, will provide a much-needed support space to help stage opera and ballet productions. The new complex will also house dance studios and a unique rehearsal room, large enough to accommodate seating full sized scenery, orchestra, and an audience of 150.

In addition to opera and ballet, the 2000-seat Opera House will be able to stage symphonic performances. The concert towers and concert ceiling adjust to provide the right acoustical environment for concerts, and seating can be modified in various ways. If not needed, the orchestra pit can be converted, by way of lifts, to either extend the stage platform or provide space for additional orchestra-level seating. The room is equipped with a house mix position, which can be removed (on its own lift) to provide room for additional seating.

One of the most challenging aspects of this project is the implementation of a tall bridge for theater personnel and equipment, across Krukov Canal. The ability to transfer scenery from the historic Mariinsky Theatre into the New Opera House will provide a unique opportunity to stage the same performance in both houses.

Artec provided Design and Planning services covering Pre-Design Phase services, Auditorium Design, Facility Planning, Specialized Performance Equipment Systems Design and Noise & Vibration Control consulting. Artec was additionally commissioned to provide acoustic consulting services for the renovation of the historic Mariinsky Theatre, and to coordinate the theatre planning aspects of the two separate projects. The architect of the new building is Dominique Perraut.