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Summary of Completed Projects

Map of Downtown Palo Alto Projects

The concrete entry cupola at 456 University Avenue, Palo Alto, as it existed since the marquee was last changed in the 1950’s. Due to the theatre’s historical significance, an Environmental Impact Report was required to address the proposed retail expansion, seismic upgrade and historical fabric issues.

The open courtyard has a tile-covered arcade on both sides. The high concrete side walls (or parapets) behind the arcade structure had no significant out-of-plane bracing, and were subject to pounding from the adjacent buildings in a future earthquake. Beyond the arcade, the lobby entry can be seen, with the main theatre rising up behind. The concrete detailing on the building exterior was crumbling, due to corrosion of the reinforcing steel. In some locations, the steel was found to be just under the exterior surface, with little weather protection.

The entry cupola tile roof was temporarily removed in order to install seismic ties, anchor bolts, and a layer of plywood on the rafters, as well as the ceiling below. Architectural elements were also repaired.

The tall concrete parapet on each side was removed at the arcade roof level. Steel tubes were extended up to support a new, lighter parapet, and provide some seismic separation from the adjacent buildings. The arcade roofs were bolted to ledgers and plywood installed.

The two arcade parapet walls were recreated with steel studs, then covered with a stucco and gypsum board fire-rated assembly. The original arcade roof tiles were cleaned and reinstalled on the new plywood roofing.

The cupola exterior concrete and the exposed walls of the original structure were coated with an elastomeric sealant to protect the reinforcing steel. The marquee was rewired to current standards.

The repaired flag pole wall and original architectural elements are presented in a style consistent with the original design intent. A courtyard fountain was constructed, similar to the original design.