In the environs of London and many other cities throughout the world, there are any number of "pleasure palaces" that have long ago seen their best days. Once glorious structures have fallen into decay. How can these former beauties be transformed and once again have a use?
These days it benefits the environment to transform an existing building rather than demolish and start over, wherever this is feasible. Reusing the existing foundations and in some cases the original facade of the building can mean much less impact on the environment and will in the majority of cases be much less cost to the developer. But what can you do with an old disused theatre? The answer to this question is... plenty! With some ingenuity and architectural knowledge, these beautiful old buildings can once again stand proud in the streetscapes of our cities.
Obviously, the decision whether to renovate or rebuild depends upon the structural integrity of the building as well as the visual aesthetics. Does the building have a cultural significance? Does it exemplify a particular 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 many possible transformations of an old theatre.
Creating a Contemporary Theatre/Cinema Complex
This is in all likelihood the obvious option for such a structure. Placing updated facilities within 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 disused theatres that have been transformed in this way.
Depending upon the size of the original building and the demands of the locality, there is even the possibility of a small performance space, complete with change rooms, to satisfy those with a taste for live theatre.
Incorporating a Shopping Mall
This is indeed a way to increase revenue, particularly for a building placed in the centre of a city. Exclusive shops with a variety of interesting items for sale would boost the local economy and provide retail-based employment. Consideration should be made regarding car parking spaces or the availability of public transport to attract the highest number of shoppers.
A Leisure Complex
A combination of a gym with healthy food stalls would appeal to time-poor city workers. Add to this a meeting space, possibly even a conference centre and the old theatre takes on a new role. A roof top garden, wherever possible, would create a haven for humans, transporting them from their stressful daily lives, even if only for a short time.
A Suite of Residential Units
City living is becoming increasingly attractive and residential spaces are at a premium in most cities. An old theatre can be transformed into a series of trendy living spaces for those who wish to be close to the action, or for those who don't want to commute to work. Once again, the roof top garden can be an area where residents can share meals or simply unwind.
With the application of some ingenuity and considered planning, these ideas are sure to be a success and the old theatre will live once more.
These days it benefits the environment to transform an existing building rather than demolish and start over, wherever this is feasible. Reusing the existing foundations and in some cases the original facade of the building can mean much less impact on the environment and will in the majority of cases be much less cost to the developer. But what can you do with an old disused theatre? The answer to this question is... plenty! With some ingenuity and architectural knowledge, these beautiful old buildings can once again stand proud in the streetscapes of our cities.
Obviously, the decision whether to renovate or rebuild depends upon the structural integrity of the building as well as the visual aesthetics. Does the building have a cultural significance? Does it exemplify a particular 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 many possible transformations of an old theatre.
Creating a Contemporary Theatre/Cinema Complex
This is in all likelihood the obvious option for such a structure. Placing updated facilities within 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 disused theatres that have been transformed in this way.
Depending upon the size of the original building and the demands of the locality, there is even the possibility of a small performance space, complete with change rooms, to satisfy those with a taste for live theatre.
Incorporating a Shopping Mall
This is indeed a way to increase revenue, particularly for a building placed in the centre of a city. Exclusive shops with a variety of interesting items for sale would boost the local economy and provide retail-based employment. Consideration should be made regarding car parking spaces or the availability of public transport to attract the highest number of shoppers.
A Leisure Complex
A combination of a gym with healthy food stalls would appeal to time-poor city workers. Add to this a meeting space, possibly even a conference centre and the old theatre takes on a new role. A roof top garden, wherever possible, would create a haven for humans, transporting them from their stressful daily lives, even if only for a short time.
A Suite of Residential Units
City living is becoming increasingly attractive and residential spaces are at a premium in most cities. An old theatre can be transformed into a series of trendy living spaces for those who wish to be close to the action, or for those who don't want to commute to work. Once again, the roof top garden can be an area where residents can share meals or simply unwind.
With the application of some ingenuity and considered planning, these ideas are sure to be a success and the old theatre will live once more.
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