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 Theater
By 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 University
Design architect: Arcadis
Architect of record: Arcadis
MEP engineer: Highland Associates
Structural engineer: Thornton Tomasetti
General contractor/construction manager: Schimenti Construction Company
Related Stories
Building Team | Jun 27, 2017
Bruner Foundation announces 2017 Rudy Bruner Award for Urban Excellence gold and silver medalists
The SteelStacks Arts and Cultural Campus in Bethlehem, Pa., receives the gold medal and $50,000.
Libraries | May 31, 2017
A year after its facelift, Boston’s Public Library is relevant again
Visitors are flocking to its brighter, connected halls, which now include retail and digital components.
Cultural Facilities | May 25, 2017
The Shed, a multi-arts center on New York’s west side, moves forward in construction and funding
The facility, designed for maximum programming flexibility, includes a massive movable shell.
Cultural Facilities | May 4, 2017
Obama Foundation reveals first look at the Obama Presidential Center
The design comprises three buildings set in the public space of Jackson Park on Chicago’s South Side.
Performing Arts Centers | Mar 6, 2017
An oval defines the Frank Gehry-designed Pierre Boulez Saal concert hall
The hall hosted its debut concert on Saturday, March 4 with a performance by the Boulez Ensemble.
Cultural Facilities | Mar 2, 2017
The Hanoi Lotus Centre will bloom from the middle of a lake
The building will act as a symbol of growth and prosperity for the city of Hanoi.
Cultural Facilities | Jan 30, 2017
Former windmill factory proposed as new ‘vibrant culture house’
The transformed building would provide space for street sports, street culture, and street art.
Cultural Facilities | Dec 14, 2016
Institutions aggressively targeting private donors to fund construction projects
Capital campaigns abound, even though government financing still plays a vital role.
Cultural Facilities | Oct 27, 2016
Zaha Hadid Architects’ Urban Heritage Administration Centre takes its design from the surrounding desert
The futuristic curves that have become a staple for ZHA-designed buildings are also on full display.
Cultural Facilities | Sep 19, 2016
International competition recognizes insect-inspired design for Moscow Circus School
The proposal would make the school’s activities more transparent to the public.
