The Theatre Royal Brighton is grade II* listed and the existing building had not had any major upgrade and maintenance work carried out in over 50 years. As a result many of the external features were damaged beyond repair, significantly a 35 m long terracotta colonnade which needed complete restoration.

Pawlik + Wiedmer were commissioned to prepare a multi stage refurbishment programme.

The first phase of the project consisted of a major internal refurbishment of the auditorium and public circulation spaces, complete renewal of the electrical and water systems both front and back of house. The terracotta colonnade was completely reconstructed. The Colonade Pub interior was also restored to its former splendour.

Phase two of the project plans to introduce a new ventilation system into the auditorium and improvements to the stage door areas to improve access for visiting productions.

Please also read our recent article in Theatres Magazine about the Colonnade reconstruction:

Don't paint over the cracks