Village East Cinema

The Jaffe Art Theater is an exquisite neo-Moorish creation from 1925, commissioned by Louis Jaffe and brought to life by the ingenious design of Harrison Wiseman. Originally intended as a Yiddish-language theater, the theater's historical journey evolved, transforming it into a cinema in 1991. Both its exterior and interior are individually designated as New York City Landmarks, while the theater is listed on the State and National Registers of Historic Places. 

Our interior preservation efforts focused on the preservation and restoration of the main auditorium's ornate plaster ceiling and dome. The process involved the removal of plaster ceiling panels, followed by their reinforcement, cleaning, and careful reinstallation. Damaged and missing panels were replaced and in-painted to match existing panels. The iron hanging structure that supports the ceiling was reinforced, while the heart of the auditorium, the central dome, underwent a comprehensive restoration and repainting process. All work was reviewed and approved by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission. 

The restoration of the Jaffe Art Theater's interior has rekindled its brilliance and stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of preservation and commitment to architectural legacy. This project has garnered accolades, such as the Greenwich Village Society for Historic Preservation Village Award and two Design Awards of Excellence from the Society of American Registered Architects New York Council.