The Fox Theater Pomona needed more than restoration. It had to be completely reconstructed, from the musicians lounge in the basement to the tip of the tower sign. Every historical element, such as seats, murals, storefronts, plaster castings, doors and the marquee, had be preserved, resuscitated, or replicated.
These pictures are a behind-the-scenes look at the Fox's transformation from an endangered landmark to a glamorous grande dame of the arts.
The Fox Theatre had accumulated decades of non-historical alterations, damage and debris. View the conditions of the theater inside and out before the restoration process begun.
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In March, the focus continues to be on demolition, particularly in the corner restaurant, 3rd St bar, men's and women's lounges, and the greenroom just off the east wing of the stage. Non-historic, non-contributing, and nonstructural partitions are removed.
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The storefront spaces are finally down to their shells. The last of the old roofing system is removed, revealing some once-in-a-lifetime views of the Fox.
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The end of demolition is in sight and and major new construction can finally begin.
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The last of the big demolition leaves quite a mess, but also reveals an unexpected treasure. The corner restaurant, 3rd St bar, and Flyway Ballroom begin to take shape as more floors and ceilings are laid. Jacks and bulldozers remove the concrete floor in front of the stage. A new flat orchestra level will accommodate both live performances and banquet dining.
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Framing is underway throughout the project, defining mezzanines, walls, and stairs. The long process of building two new elevators and bringing in new utilities starts in earnest. Stairs take shape in the corner restaurant, leading to its mezzanine dining area, and in the 3rd St. Bar, leading to its restrooms.
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Work continues on the elevator pits and interior framing. We uncover long hidden windows and begin repair of the forecourt surfaces. The highlight of the month is the removal of the Fox Tower sign" "We make fast progress on the north elevator pit and the floors above it.
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Incredibly, there is still more demolition, this time in the alley. The elevator pits and shafts make good progress. Framing turns to a massive new staircase, and mural restoration begins.
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Decorative painting is underway on the ceiling of the balcony. The orchestra level is framed in and trenched for onstage sound and lights. Attention is finally turned to the historic marquee.
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More finished concrete work takes place throughout the building. Many construction trades are unglamorous, though their contributions are essential and literally set the stage for the real eye candy. The entire team is excited when a celebrity drops in.
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Progress continues to be made on the building’s infrastructure, but the beautiful work of the muralists and painters captures all of the attention.
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