Englert Civic Theatre Restoration

Partial funding through the Community Development Block Grant program (CDBG) The rescue of the Englert Civic Theatre was a multi-phased endeavor consisting of the complete renovation and restoration of the historic 1913 theatre. Phases included installation of a new roof; overall code compliance; provision of complete accessibility with the addition of an elevator and chair lifts; new theatre lighting, rigging, sound, and stage furnishings; vestibule and lobby restoration; and restoration of stage, dressing rooms, and theater proper. Particular attention was paid to historic details and finishes as found in the original blueprints.

The Englert Civic Theatre is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. All work performed on the theatre conforms to the Secretary of Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation and Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings (U.S. Dept. of the Interior). Our work at the Englert received the Iowa Historical Preservation Alliance's 2005 "Preservation at Its Best – Large Commercial Structure" Award and the City of Iowa City's 2005 "Commercial Project -Historic Preservation" Award.

• Englert Civic Theatre Restoration
• 221 East Washington St.
• Iowa City, Iowa 52240

• Area: 21,300 ft²
• Cost of Construction: $5,300,000

Sustainable Elements

Elements

Historic Preservation is the ultimate form of recycling. The renovation and continued use of the theater for its intended purpose conserves materials and energy, preserves a significant cultural artifact and provides the opportunity for live music and theater in downtown Iowa City.