Filmhuis ’t Hoogt

Filmhuis ’t Hoogt is on the brink of an exciting new beginning — not as a classic cinema by the canal, but as a temporary, movable pavilion on a raw concrete slab between the Boulderhal and De Fietsenmakerij in Utrecht: location Beton-T. Mothership was asked to develop a concept proposal that fits this unique context and appeals to a young, curious audience.

At the heart of the design are two compact screening rooms (for 50 and 70 visitors), housed in reusable Variant sheds. These demountable structures combine flexibility with comfort and provide space for film screenings, education, debate, and culture. The halls are connected by an entrance area with a bar and ticket desk, while an open-air cinema links the site to the seasons and the city.

The design emphasizes acoustics, image quality, and overall experience. All facilities — from the projection booth to the bar, storage, seating, restrooms, and technical areas — are designed to function efficiently and purposefully within the temporary nature of the cinema. Sustainability and accessibility also play a key role, with wheelchair-accessible seating and carefully considered solutions for climate and sound control.

With this temporary home, ’t Hoogt aims to be more than just a place to watch films. It will become a cultural meeting point in an unconventional setting — raw, bold, and welcoming. A cinema that experiments with space, programming, and presentation — ready to engage a new audience in an accessible way and to celebrate film in all its forms.