Jaffe Art Theater

The Jaffe Art Theater holds a significant place in New York City's architectural and cultural heritage. Built in 1925 as a neo-Moorish theater commissioned by Louis Jaffe and designed by Harrison Wiseman, it initially served as a Yiddish-language theater before being converted into a cinema in 1991. The theater's exceptional interior and exterior have earned it individual designations as New York City Landmarks, and it is also listed on the State and National Registers of Historic Places.

Preserving the theater's exterior was a key aspect of this project, addressing various components to maintain its historic integrity. We replaced any damaged or deteriorated cast stone elements and rebuilt the parapet. We focused on cleaning and coating the ground-level cast stone and undertook a comprehensive roof and skylight replacement, with standing seam roofing installed at the ornamental bulkheads and impresario's apartment. 

Beginning in the 1960s, the second-floor offices of the Jaffe Art Theater underwent a transformation into apartments. Notably, this space became home to at least three prominent individuals from the LGBT community involved in the performing arts and visual arts fields. In 1993, the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) designated the Louis N. Jaffe Art Theater as both a New York City Landmark and an Interior Landmark. While the site was not designated specifically for LGBT significance, it was the second in the history of the LPC (established in 1965) to include an LGBT mention in the accompanying designation report.

Preserving the Jaffe Art Theater not only honors its architectural grandeur but also recognizes its significance within the LGBT community and the arts. We are proud to contribute to the preservation and celebration of this exceptional landmark that holds a special place in New York City's rich history.