The historic, 4,400-seat Wang Theatre, located in Boston’s theatre district, is a spacious, opulent hall typical of movie palaces built in the 1920’s. The architect’s award-winning historic renovation preserved the marble statuary and columns, colorful ceiling murals, the vast domed ceiling and arched walls, and the generous applications of gold leaf, crystal, and mirrors that give the hall its character.

FDA designed a new seating configuration, which created dramatically improved sightlines and greatly enhanced the ambiance of the hall by providing a greater degree of intimacy in the large audience chamber. Careful scheduling allowed the project to be completed in two phases. The first, completed in six weeks, improved sightlines and acoustics. New theatrical lighting systems were installed in Phase II. Even the most fundamental aspects of the renovation required a sensitive approach to updating the historical fabric without damaging or intruding upon the unique decorative surfaces.

The project has received numerous awards, among them a citation by the Massachussetts Historical Commission.