Lucas Theatre: Historical Ornamental Plastering Restoration
The Lucas Theatre, in Reynolds Square, Savannah, Georgia was designed by architect Claude K. Howell, opening to the public on December 26, 1921.
Deemed the “Jewel of Savannah”, the theater boasts a Spanish Baroque Revival style architectural exterior, while the interior is more notable for its Greek Revival and Art Deco design. Crowds were intrigued by the elegant finishes, like the marble floors, large domed ceiling, and expansive spaces that could house over 1,700 occupants.
The theater thrilled guests for more than 50 years until its closing in 1976, when it was slated to be demolished, yet preservation efforts led to its reopening in 2000.
The ZMartin Plastering team played a vital role in helping to restore the theater to its original grandeur, including restoration of the ornamental plaster throughout.
The intricate plaster restoration work included:
Greek Revival Ionic columns, rising majestically, supporting the lofty ceiling. Their fluted shafts and ornate capitals evoke a sense of classical grandeur.
A 40-foot-wide ceiling dome which crowns the theater. Its celestial blue hue, adorned with golden stars, transports you to a celestial realm.
The proscenium arch, framed by pilasters and festooned with laurel wreaths, frames the stage like an ancient temple entrance.
As your eyes sweep across the space, you’ll encounter Art Deco details that infuse modernity into the classical canvas, painstakingly restored by our craftsmen, including geometric motifs, zigzags, and streamlined curves adorning the walls, railings, and light fixtures.
Today, it is managed by the Savannah College of Art and Design as the Lucas Theatre for the Arts and is the home venue for the Savannah Philharmonic Orchestra.