Beyer Blinder Belle has designed a $100 million overhaul for the historic Times Square Theater, a landmark Manhattan venue dating from 1920, that will introduce a 52,000-square-foot flagship retail experience to the rejuvenated site.

Times Square Theatre rendering, image via Stillman Development International

New 42nd Street, a non-for-profit organization formed to oversee the redevelopment of seven storied theatres on 42nd Street, selected Stillman Development International for the complex task following an interview process that considered over 100 teams.

Times Square Theater in 1979, image via Beyer Blinder Belle

Having closed the curtain on movies in 1989, the Times Square Theatre has sat largely underutilized, with its original floorplan far from suitable for the modern demands of Broadway productions. The renovation and conversion harnesses Stillman's expertise in adaptive reuse to revitalize the neo-classical building as a retail destination, which the City determined was the best use of the property going forward.

A glass box will cantilever over 42nd Street, image via Stillman Development International

Designed by architect Eugene De Rosa, the building will go through a number of interior and exterior alterations. The Indiana limestone facade will be lifted five feet to give the building's ground floor higher ceilings, and additional levels will be added, bringing with it an outdoor rooftop restaurant and a glass-enclosed space on the second floor jutting out over 42nd Street. Restoration efforts will return a decorated proscenium arch, four seating boxes, sail vaults, cartouches and a large dome to their former glory.

Times Square Theatre rendering, image via Stillman Development International

Renovations are set to be complete next year in time for the theatre's 100th birthday. Stillman Development International has a long-term lease with the City. Colliers is handling the leasing of the commercial spaces. The website notes that leases for 15 years or more are now available.

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