Globe Architecture and Research

Architecture Findings

Since the Globe reconstruction was completed, further investigations have been made into the space and construction of the theatre. Findings from the Finishing the Globe conference in 2002 and the Architecture Symposium 2005 will be on our GlobeLink website soon. For further information, please email library@shakespearesglobe.com

Introduction to Shakespeare's Globe's architecture

Theo Crosby
Theo Crosby was the architect of Shakespeare’s Globe. A founding partner of Pentagram Design Ltd, he became involved in the Globe project in 1969 and began designs for the site in 1986. He died in 1994. Since then, his work has been continued by Jon Greenfield, who first joined the project in 1987.

The Globe Theatre
The original site of the Globe Theatre lies about 200 yards from its reconstruction on Bankside. The foundations were discovered in 1989 under a Grade II listed Georgian terrace and Southwark Bridge Road.

Archaeological excavations, panoramas, maps, building contracts, contemporary accounts and remaining buildings have each contributed to a body of knowledge that informed the reconstruction of the Globe Theatre. There are no remaining plans or construction drawings that clearly depict the form of the theatre itself.

Key facts:

  • The architect of the original Globe was Peter Street.
  • The new Globe had as its mastercraftsman Peter McCurdy
  • The Globe Theatre is 33ft high to the eaves (45ft overall)
  • 6,000 bundles of Norfolk Water Reed were used on the Globe’s roof
  • 36,000 handmade bricks were used
  • 90 tons of lime putty were used for the Tudor brickwork
  • 180 tons of lime plaster went into the outer walls
  • 168,000 metres of oak laths were used for both sides of the walls
  • The Globe’s pillars, which hold up the roof over the stage, are 28ft high and weigh a total of 3 tons

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