SAN FRANCISCO, CA.- The architecture and preservation firm Page & Turnbull has announced its role as preservation architect for the restoration of San Francisco’s iconic Castro Theatre, working alongside lead architect, CAW Architects.

Page & Turnbull’s role on the revitalization of the world-renowned entertainment and LGBTQ+ community landmark will restore the 1922 theater’s historic features as the theater is repositioned from its legacy as a film venue into a flexible performance and entertainment destination. Owned by the Nasser family of San Francisco, the historic building was originally designed as a movie house by renowned San Francisco architect Timothy L. Pflueger, known for designing some of San Francisco's most notable Art Deco buildings.

According to Page & Turnbull, the theater was designated a San Francisco City Landmark in 1976, and in 2020 it closed following Covid pandemic restrictions. Today, the Castro Theatre’s restoration, renovation, and programing are spearheaded by Another Planet Entertainment.

Page & Turnbull’s project manager Elisa Hernandez Skaggs, AIA, says the restoration of the theater’s deteriorating historic elements will encompass restoration of the exterior neon blade sign. Inside, the design team’s collaborations with EverGreene Architectural Arts will restore the auditorium’s highly decorative plaster ceiling. Other areas of the design team’s restoration work, says Skaggs, will revitalize the building’s historic finishes, reviving its ornate sgraffito murals, historic light fixtures, and ornate central chandelier, along with a proscenium that has been hidden from view for more than 50 years.

CAW Architect's design also introduces tiered seating and upgrades to mechanical, audio, video and lighting systems; improves accessibility; and expands and renovates restrooms, dressing rooms and concession areas.

“We’re excited to bring life back to the Castro Theatre and its many historic features,” says Skaggs. “This is a one-of-a-kind venue with significant architecture and detailing, inside and out. Restoring this historic and cultural icon advances its legacy as a vibrant community venue.”

Page & Turnbull, with four offices in California, is widely known for large-scale cultural and performing arts projects. Other theaters that have benefitted from their expertise include rehabilitation of the 1917 Strand Theater in San Francisco and restoration of Los Angeles’ historic Greek Theatre. Most recently, the renovated ULCA Nimoy Theater, originally built in 1940 as the Crest Theatre, opened to the public in 2023.