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Thursday, November 5, 2009

Transforming An Old Theatre

By Jamie Cawasaki

Around London and many other cities throughout the world, there are many "pleasure palaces" that have long ago outlived their original use. Once glorious structures have fallen into decay. How can these relics of the past be transformed and regain their usefulness?

In these times it benefits the environment to renovate an existing building rather than demolish and start over, wherever this is feasible. Retaining the existing foundations and in some examples the outer shell of the structure can mean much less impact on the environment and will in many cases be much less cost to the developer. But how can you transform an old derelict theatre? The answer is... plenty! By applying a little imagination and architectural knowledge, these old beauties can once again play a part in the streetscapes of our cities.

Clearly, the decision whether to renovate or rebuild is dependent upon the structural integrity of the building as well as the visual aesthetics. Is there a cultural significance attached to the building? Does it represent a specific architectural period? Will the resulting structure appreciate in value? There are many such factors that must be carefully considered.

The following ideas are but four of numerous possible transformations of an old theatre.

Creating a Contemporary Theatre/Cinema Complex

This is mostly likely the clearest choice for such a structure. Providing updated facilities in a heritage building can be seen as the best of both worlds, combining the romance of the pleasure palace with state of the art technology as demanded by contemporary audiences. There are many old theatres that have been transformed in this way.

Should the size of the original building and the local demands call for it, there even be scope for a small performance space, complete with change rooms, to satisfy those with a taste for live theatre.

Creating a Shopping Mall

This is a viable way to increase revenue, especially when a building is situated in the heart of a city. Small specialty shops with a variety of goods for sale would enhance the local economy and provide retail-based employment. Car parking spaces or the availability of public transport should be considered to attract the greatest number of shoppers.

A Leisure Complex

A combination of a gym with healthy food stalls will attract time-poor city workers. Consider including a meeting place, possibly even a conference centre and the old theatre takes on a new life. A roof top garden, wherever possible, would create a haven for humans, providing relief from their stressful daily lives, even if only for a little while.

A Suite Of Residential Dwellings

City living is always attractive and residential spaces are at a premium in most cities. An old theatre can be transformed into a number of modern living spaces for those who wish to be close to the action, or for people who do not wish to commute to work. Once again, the roof top garden can be an area where residents can share meals or simply unwind.

With a little ingenuity and considered planning, these ideas are more than likely to be a success and the old theatre will live again. - 23208

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