2022
Gold Award
General Contractor

Projects of Distinction

Project

The Oriental Theatre Historic Preservation

Winner

Altius Building Company

Location

Milwaukee, WI

Owner

Milwaukee Film

Designer

The Kubala Washatko Architects

About the Project

Built in 1927, the historic Oriental Theatre needed substantial updating and renovations to bring it into modern times while keeping its history. As the theater was in operation, a wave of construction phases were master planned to minimize business disruptions. Phased restorations included the addition of a women’s restroom on the main floor, larger men’s restroom, a family restroom, janitor’s closet, retail store space, storefront, new projection, sound equipment, new seats for Theater C (West House), acoustical wall treatments, floor repair, a new concession stand, improvements to the Main House (new seating, flooring and balcony), East Theater, ceiling plaster restoration, and acoustical, branding display, and lighting renovations. The restoration preserved the original “temple of Oriental art” design brought forth by architectural firm Dick & Bauer in 1927. The east Indian “palace” aesthetic is still very much evident upon walking into the theatre and creates a lasting impression for all who visit. It could not have been done without the combined talent of the owner, owner representative, designer, and Altius Building Co.

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