Project of the Month: Colantonio Inc. and Wilson Butler Architects complete historic Zeiterion Theatre renovation

New Bedford, MA Colantonio Inc. completed the historic renovation and restoration of the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center in downtown. Working alongside The Zeiterion Theatre, Inc., Wilson Butler Architects, and P3 Project Planning Professionals, Colantonio renovated 33,500 s/f of the historic facility while preserving the character and architectural details that have defined the theater for more than a century. The project included the restoration of the 1,246-seat theater, upgrades to patron spaces, a new elevator, expanded lobby and lounge areas, administrative offices, a third-floor studio space, a basement-level speakeasy, and modern building systems throughout.

 

 

Some of the most challenging work happened where performers and patrons alike will never see it. Beneath the theater, crews excavated below the existing auditorium floor to install new underground HVAC infrastructure and a modern orchestra lift system capable of supporting multiple performance configurations. At the same time, structural modifications were completed throughout the building to accommodate new systems while protecting the historic structure above.

But the work wasn’t limited to what was behind the walls and below the floor. Months of detailed plaster and paint restoration were required to bring the auditorium back to its historic appearance. Decorative finishes, architectural details, storefront windows, and other original features were carefully repaired and restored throughout the facility.

 

 

 

Colantonio self-performed significant portions of the project, including sitework, carpentry, framing, storefront window installation, and restoration support. Having crews onsite throughout construction allowed the team to respond quickly as conditions changed, which is often the reality when working inside a century-old building.

Leading the project for Colantonio were project manager Jake Robitaille and assistant project manager Mike McDonald, both South Coast natives who grew up attending performances at the Zeiterion. Years later, they found themselves helping lead the effort to restore one of the region’s most recognizable historic landmarks.

“Their work has not only reflected the highest standards of the construction field but also demonstrated genuine care for the long-term success of our organization,” said Rosemary Gill, CEO of The Zeiterion Theatre. “We are deeply grateful for their efforts and enthusiastically recommend them without reservation.”

The completed renovation provides the Zeiterion with improved accessibility, expanded program space, upgraded building systems, and a restored historic theater that will continue serving performers, patrons, and the greater New Bedford community for its next 100 years.

The project team included:

• Colantonio Inc. - Construction Manager
• Wilson Butler Architects - Architect 
• EverGreene Architectural Arts - Mural, Plasterwork, and Decorative Finishes Restoration
• Rustic Fire Protection - Fire Protection
• Wayne J Griffin - Electrical
• EV Mechanical Inc. - Plumbing
• Woodcraft Millwork - Millwork