The building had undergone various upgrades and restorations between 1931, when it was extensively damaged by the Hawke’s Bay earthquake, and 2006. In 2014 it was found to require further seismic strengthening.
In addition to the seismic upgrade, DPA’s work saw the interior and exterior of the building redecorated, bathrooms redesigned, and the ornate plaster ceiling in the auditorium replastered and repainted. Ground floor tiling was reconstructed to accommodate new concrete foundations and a new colour scheme was adopted, informed by earlier influences.
Formerly dark spaces were transformed by a lighter palette. In the auditorium, rich red tones in carpet, seating and feature walls compliment panels of a 2004 mural reused in the upgrade and create an atmosphere of depth and luxury associated with traditional theatre design.
Photography: Sarah Rowlands