How Can An Old Theatre Be Transformed?
ByAround London and many other cities in the world, exist many “pleasure palaces” that have many years before become redundant. Once glorious structures have become derelict. is it possible to transform these past relics be transformed to regain their usefulness?
These days it benefits the environment to transform an existing building rather than demolish and start over, wherever this is feasible. The retention of the existing foundations and in many cases the original outer walls of the structure can cause much less impact on the environment and will in the majority of situations be much less cost to the developer. But what can be done with an old derelict theatre? The answer is… plenty! With a degree of imagination and architectural knowledge, these old beauties can once again play a role in the streetscapes of our cities.
Clearly, the decision whether to renovate or rebuild depends 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 taken into consideration.
The following ideas are just four of many possible transformations of an old theatre.
Creating a Contemporary Theatre/Cinema Complex
This is mostly likely the obvious choice for such a structure. The provision of updated facilities in a heritage building could be considered to be the best of both worlds, combining the romance of the pleasure palace with state of the art technology as as contemporary audiences have come to expect. Many an old theatre has been transformed in this way.
Depending upon the size of the original building and the demands of the locality, there is even scope for a small performance space, complete with change rooms, to satisfy those with a taste for live theatre.
Constructing a Shopping Mall
This is indeed a way to increase revenue, particularly when the building is placed in the heart of a city. Small boutiques with a variety of goods for sale would boost the local economy and create retail-based employment. The availability of public transport and the creation of car parking spaces 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 role. A roof top garden, wherever possible, would result in a haven for humans, transporting them from their stressful daily lives, even if only for a few minutes.
A Suite of Residential Apartments
City living is always attractive and residential spaces are at a premium in most cities. An old theatre can be transformed into a series of contemporary living spaces for those who love to be where the excitement is, 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 careful planning, these ideas are sure to be a success and the old theatre will live again.
If you’re considering investing in an exceedingly disused theatre to redevelop, be certain to go to theatre for sale for a few useful advice.
