Construction Complete on Historic Renovation of Paradise Toronto Theatre

Construction has been completed on the historic renovation of Paradise, located in Toronto, Ontario. Ware Malcomb provided architecture and interior design services for the project, and Northern Structures Limited served as general contractor.

Originally opened in 1937 in Toronto’s Bloorcourt neighborhood, the heritage-designated Paradise building recently reopened following the renovation. The project involved converting the existing theatre into a multi-functional venue, including a theatre, restaurant and bar. In addition to offering a curated mix of newly released films, older classics, undiscovered gems, themed seasons and event cinema, Paradise Theatre also features live music, comedy, talk series and multi-arts events. In the redesigned space, patrons can now enjoy in-seat dining in the theatre balcony, dining at the full-service Osteria Rialto restaurant, cocktails at Bar Biltmore and snacks in the lobby.

Built in the Art Deco and Art Moderne styles, the building was given heritage designation in 2007. Working with ERA architects on the protected heritage aspect of the exterior façade/reconstruction of the main building, great care was taken to limit refinishing to maintain the appearance of the original façade and signage in compliance with heritage requirements.

Architectural details included utilizing existing masonry, a curtainwall, aluminum composite panels, metal siding and steel frames combined with infill glazing units. In addition to the unique challenges associated in renovating a heritage site, other challenges included waterproofing and providing thermal bridging throughout the existing century-old building.