When the plans for renovation the Historic Hemet Theatre began, no one imagined that a Newport Beach architectural firm specializing in preservation architecture would be the designers. But as the search began, connections were made and Thirtieth Street Architects quickly rose to the top of the list. A key factor in the decision was the fact that TSA had been the design firm on the Hemet Library and had worked with Hemet’s building department process.
TSA’s lead architect, John Loomis, fell in love with HHT at first sight. “This is one of the finest old movie houses that I have seen. It is really an extraordinary experience to be a part of this transformation.”
Loomis has spent over 35 years preserving historic building, from old Hollywood theaters to Missions across California. “If you go drive down Hollywood Blvd, you will see some of our work” Loomis explained.
TSA specialists are the minds behind some of the most iconic theater facades in the world. Now they have turned their sights to Hemet and its historic movie house – one of the 10 oldest in the country.
“HHT is a well-built building and an excellent fit for preservation,” Loomis said.
“CEO Susan Carrier and her team had a wish list of features and a vison of incorporating elements of the past in the design. With a preliminary design in hand, we contacted the city to ensure the plans blended with Hemet’s Downtown Specific Plan.”
Throughout the process it was obvious that the City of Hemet fully supports mission of the HHT Foundation – to preserve a treasured valley landmark while providing great entertainment and helping to revitalize the Downtown District. The process took a couple of years, and a few design adjustments, but final approval was given in September 2019.
The revitalization plan includes space in the upper level for a museum and meeting rooms. The finished facility will be more than simply a beautifully crafted theater; it will be a multi-use facility.
HHT is already a destination for many out-of-town visitors, drawing tourist dollars into the local economy. As the renovation plans progress and HHT becomes even more popular, with even more events, the impact of this project will expand every year.
Information on the renovation project and all theatre events is available at www.HistoricHemetTheatre.com or by calling the ticket office, (951) 658-5950. You can subscribe to the HHT email blast by enrolling on the website.
Emily Rand • Contributed
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