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We're in the process of re-opening a vintage theatre in Columbus, OH.

The theatre needs some interior renovation, wall hangings, curtains, plaster and paint, etc. As much as possible, we want to re-create the general deco look it may have had -- no interior pictures and little remembrance by former patrons -- when it opened.

We also are considering a new projection mezzanine -- don't ask -- that would basically be a beam-to-beam structure with a poured concrete floor.

For all of the above reasons, we're looked for an integrated design so that everything looks like it "belongs".

Anyone familiar with a design or architectural firm in Ohio (central preferred) that does theatrical work? If not in Ohio, a group that works nationally?

Also, has anyone had a recent project done with a designer/architect? If so, what was the general cost of the design (not construction) portion?

-David

I would be very careful to use a architect that has theatre experience. Do not use a local architect as they will generally not understand sight lines, seating needs, egress, theatre ethos, etc. etc. Look in our directory: there are many. Go to Box Office/ Screentrade/ Film Journal: dozen of architects. If you don't really need an architect a good designer will do.

Oh, cool. Thanks for the pointer. I overlooked that.

-David

Check with the League of Historic American Theatres.
They can give you referrals.

Also, check with the Columbus Association For The Performing Arts,
the people that restored and operate the Ohio, Palace and Southern Theaters there in Columbus.
They may be able to turn you on to an appropriate local architect.

Have fun!

By the way, which theater are you renovating?

Tony

The Grandview Theatre. This has run for the past 15 years or so as the Drexel Grandview, but we're going to revert (for obvious reasons) to its original name.

Dear dnedrow,

You may want to contact John Williams when we designed the Shaker Square Cinemas renovations for Cleveland Cinemas in 1999 (216 622 2990). He has also designed some theatre renovations since that time. BTW, we just teamed up with him for an RFQ submission to an Ohio University cinema project.

Harold Smith, Mesbur+Smith Architects, Toronto

Heh, I've worked with John in the past and he's working on my stuff now. We've got a local architect handling the building itself.


-David