Renovation restores century-old Brooklyn Paramount Theater to its original use

Renovation restores century-old Brooklyn Paramount Theater to its original use 0 dbarista Tue, 03/26/2024 - 10:47 Cultural Facilities The renovation of the iconic Brooklyn Paramount Theater restored the building to its original purpose as a movie theater and music performance venue. Long Island University had acquired the venue in the 1960s and repurposed it as the school’s basketball court. Peter Fabris, Contributing Editor The Brooklyn Paramount Theater previously served as the basketball court for Long Island University.  Cultural Facilities Performing Arts Centers Contractors Designers Designers / Specifiers / Landscape Architects Engineers Facility Managers Architects Building Owners Adaptive Reuse The renovation of the iconic Brooklyn Paramount Theater restored the building to its original purpose as a movie theater and music performance venue. Long Island University had acquired the venue in the 1960s and repurposed it as the school’s basketball court.The recently completed restoration preserved historical features while adapting to modern needs. Opened in 1928, the theater was renowned for hosting the world's first talking movies and showcasing legendary musical performers like Buddy Holly & The Crickets, Chuck Berry, Duke Ellington, and Ella Fitzgerald. Redesigned for owner Live Nation, it now accommodates contemporary artists while paying homage to its storied past.Designed by Arcadis, the renovation incorporated a comprehensive marquee redesign, drawing inspiration from the original structure. The intricately designed ceiling was constructed with plaster, with special attention given to ensure its structural stability so that it is capable of withstanding intense bass vibrations of concerts. Collaborating with a lighting designer, the team illuminated the upper plaster dome, transforming it into a beautiful canvas enveloping the space in colored light to enhance the concert experience.New life for Brooklyn Paramount TheaterBy examining the venue’s original design and historical drawings from the 1920s, the design team salvaged intricate details and restored original architecture altered over the past century. The ticket lobby has been reimagined to align with modern aesthetics and security standards.Upon entering the 2,700-capacity music hall, patrons are greeted by the featured bar before they encounter a sloped floor designed for optimal viewing. Old classrooms on the upper balcony were turned into mechanical areas to provide the space with modern comfort. The balcony’s original rococo columns with a colonnade, signaling the top of the venue, were replicated.The second-level balcony boasts exclusive boxes and “Ella's VIP lounge,” paying homage to Fitzgerald's iconic performances in the 1950s. The intimate atmosphere of the VIP lounge showcases a small stage wrapped in a warm burnt-red drape. Over four dozen glistening gold disco balls add an additional level of sparkle to the space to set it apart from the rest of the venue.Owner and/or developer: Live Nation / Long Island UniversityDesign architect: ArcadisArchitect of record: ArcadisMEP engineer: Highland AssociatesStructural engineer: Thornton TomasettiGeneral contractor/construction manager: Schimenti Construction CompanyBrooklyn Paramount TheaterBrooklyn Paramount TheaterBrooklyn Paramount Theater