Add To Collection
Add to Collection
State Theatre
State Theatre
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
Other Projects by Clayton Korte
State Theatre
Austin’s original performing arts venue, the State Theatre first opened in 1935 as a movie palace on Congress Avenue. Today, it continues its legacy by hosting drama, comedy, music, dance, and spoken-word events for audiences of all ages. The Austin Theatre Alliance—the nonprofit operating the Paramount and State Theatres—is undertaking a transformational effort to restore the 110-year-old Paramount Theatre and completely reimagine the 90-year-old State Theatre.
This long-overdue revitalization honors the history of two of Austin’s most iconic cultural landmarks while laying the foundation for a future defined by creative possibility, increased accessibility, and deeper community connection. The comprehensive renovations will elevate the patron experience, expand programming opportunities, and strengthen Austin’s live performance landscape in the heart of downtown.
As the architects for the State Theatre’s reimagining, and the design architects for JP’s Peace, Love, and Happiness Lounge at the Paramount, our team is approaching this project with a vision rooted in preserving history while opening the theatre’s doors wider than ever. A full interior transformation restores the State’s long-lost art deco spirit, while the refreshed facade and marquee revive the charm generations of Austinites remember.
A rehabilitated Art Deco façade celebrates the theatre’s 1930s roots, highlighting the iconic marquee and blade signage. Updates include two new ticketing windows, additional egress doors, and divided-light steel and glass infill. Inside, rich materials and detailing reflect the exterior’s Deco character. A reconfigured double-height lobby features a sculptural stair connecting all levels, while bars on each floor and a second-level lounge offer inviting spaces for patrons to gather before, during, and after performances. A new rooftop patio provides sweeping downtown views and a close-up look at the State’s historic neon signage.
The auditorium is now equipped for flexible seating and lighting configurations, immersive audio, and enhanced projection capabilities. Telescopic seating expands capacity from 300 to 435 seats, with cabaret layouts or a 500-person standing configuration to support a broader spectrum of performances. These improvements increase total capacity to more than 500, making the venue viable for a wide range of events.
Backstage, a new mechanical lift and expanded platform streamline equipment movement, and an extended stage supports both traditional backstage functions and intimate thrust-stage performances. A reimagined basement connects an underground bar directly to the auditorium and green room, giving performers comfortable spaces to prepare and unwind. A new two-sided elevator also links the State and the Paramount, providing long-overdue accessibility between select Paramount levels.
Upgraded AV infrastructure, including Dolby sound systems, positions the State as a competitive destination for touring acts, offering professional-grade capabilities within an intimate setting. Modern materials such as blue velvet seating, perforated wood paneling, ribbon lighting, and dark fabric accents elevate the environment while preserving the theatre’s warmth and character.
The reimagined State Theatre emerges as a boutique yet remarkably versatile performance venue, seamlessly blending historic charm with modern functionality. With flexible seating, advanced sound and lighting, expanded hospitality, and enhanced backstage amenities, it is poised to welcome a new generation of performers and audiences—and to continue shaping Austin’s vibrant cultural landscape.
This long-overdue revitalization honors the history of two of Austin’s most iconic cultural landmarks while laying the foundation for a future defined by creative possibility, increased accessibility, and deeper community connection. The comprehensive renovations will elevate the patron experience, expand programming opportunities, and strengthen Austin’s live performance landscape in the heart of downtown.
As the architects for the State Theatre’s reimagining, and the design architects for JP’s Peace, Love, and Happiness Lounge at the Paramount, our team is approaching this project with a vision rooted in preserving history while opening the theatre’s doors wider than ever. A full interior transformation restores the State’s long-lost art deco spirit, while the refreshed facade and marquee revive the charm generations of Austinites remember.
A rehabilitated Art Deco façade celebrates the theatre’s 1930s roots, highlighting the iconic marquee and blade signage. Updates include two new ticketing windows, additional egress doors, and divided-light steel and glass infill. Inside, rich materials and detailing reflect the exterior’s Deco character. A reconfigured double-height lobby features a sculptural stair connecting all levels, while bars on each floor and a second-level lounge offer inviting spaces for patrons to gather before, during, and after performances. A new rooftop patio provides sweeping downtown views and a close-up look at the State’s historic neon signage.
The auditorium is now equipped for flexible seating and lighting configurations, immersive audio, and enhanced projection capabilities. Telescopic seating expands capacity from 300 to 435 seats, with cabaret layouts or a 500-person standing configuration to support a broader spectrum of performances. These improvements increase total capacity to more than 500, making the venue viable for a wide range of events.
Backstage, a new mechanical lift and expanded platform streamline equipment movement, and an extended stage supports both traditional backstage functions and intimate thrust-stage performances. A reimagined basement connects an underground bar directly to the auditorium and green room, giving performers comfortable spaces to prepare and unwind. A new two-sided elevator also links the State and the Paramount, providing long-overdue accessibility between select Paramount levels.
Upgraded AV infrastructure, including Dolby sound systems, positions the State as a competitive destination for touring acts, offering professional-grade capabilities within an intimate setting. Modern materials such as blue velvet seating, perforated wood paneling, ribbon lighting, and dark fabric accents elevate the environment while preserving the theatre’s warmth and character.
The reimagined State Theatre emerges as a boutique yet remarkably versatile performance venue, seamlessly blending historic charm with modern functionality. With flexible seating, advanced sound and lighting, expanded hospitality, and enhanced backstage amenities, it is poised to welcome a new generation of performers and audiences—and to continue shaping Austin’s vibrant cultural landscape.
Product Spec Sheet
Were your products used?
Join as a manufacturer to add your products.