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Revitalizing Brooklyn’s Gem
For nearly a century, Brooklyn has been a borough that brought numerous entertainment options to New Yorkers. Located at the westernmost end of Long Island, it has been a hub of cultural icons and the arts. It has been an epicenter for independent music and arts, and famous events like the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM). The Brooklyn Paramount Theater specifically has been a cultural icon for almost a full century.
First opened in the year 1928, the Brooklyn Paramount Theater has been a key historical venue that became a staple for entertainment, hosting concerts, Broadway shows, and even films. Known for its grand architecture and rich history, it became a must-go-to-place for New Yorkers to enjoy some of the best performances of its time.
Though it has been an icon of entertainment and arts, as the years passed and the interest of the people changed, the theater fell into disrepair. Thankfully, a comprehensive restoration by Arcadis has brought the Paramount Theater back to life, preserving its history while updating it for the future of performance art.
The goal was simple, restoring it to breathe a new life while honoring its rich past. Arcadis worked closely with historical architects and designers, ensuring that every detail of the original design was preserved, from the decorative plaster moldings to the iconic latticework ceiling. A key part that Arcadis had to ensure the updates stayed true to the building's roots was archival blueprints that dated back to the 1920s which resulted in a combination of old and new designs where historical features shine alongside modern additions.
Critical aspects of the restoration include a redesigned marquee that produces the grandeur of the original, as well as the reconstruction of the front entrance to match the theater's classic look. The ticket lobby was reimagined, bringing both old and new elements together to create an inviting space for guests. The ornate plaster ceiling, one of the most striking features of the theater, was carefully repaired, allowing it to shine once again as the centerpiece of the venue.
In a more dramatic update, the upper balcony was repurposed into mechanical areas, helping the theater meet the needs of today’s performances while respecting its legacy. The addition of replicated rococo columns brings an elegant, timeless touch to the space, while a VIP lounge called Ella’s Lounge was created in homage to the legendary jazz singer Ella Fitzgerald, who once graced the stage here. Originally an office and hallway space, the lounge now offers a luxurious, elevated experience for premium guests.
The restoration also included updates to the grand foyer, which spans three stories. This upgrade included a new bar and ticket lobby, and projection-mapped visual effects were incorporated, infusing the space with a modern energy that enhances the overall atmosphere.
The Brooklyn Paramount Theater’s restoration is a perfect balance of honoring history and embracing the future. By preserving the theater’s architectural beauty and adding modern touches, Arcadis has created a venue that will continue to be a hub of entertainment for years to come. The revitalized theater proved that preserving history has what it takes to win the NY Architectural Design Awards title for Arcadis.
Credits:
Entry Title: Brooklyn Paramount Theater
Entrant Company: Arcadis
Winning Category: Historical Preservation and Renovation - Historical Interior Preservation and Restoration
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