OCTOBER 11, 2006: At a special meeting of the Landmarks Board at the New Mission Theater, owner Gus Murad's architects, Kerman/Morris Architects, unveiled impressive plans to restore and rennovate the theater. The plan is to use the space as a nightclub/restaurant venue using the stage for concerts and DVD projection. The adjacent Giant Value property, included in the theater's purchase from City College in 2003, is to play a contingent role in funding the New Mission's work. Pending approval from the Planning Commission, the Giant Value space will have commercial space at the street level and residential condos above. Murad intends to fast-track the restoration of the theater once the plans are approved.
The architect reported that while the auditorium area was in surprisingly good condition, the ceiling over the entry way and the unstable walls of the outer lobby area require considerable work. Interest was voiced at the meeting that the New Mission's continued capability to project 35mm film should be an important consideration. More details of the proposal and reactions from the Save The New Mission group will be forthcoming on this site.
The pictures below show the building as it appeared on the day of the Landmarks Board hearing. The graffiti much on display was the result of a rave event held in April 2006.
External Links:
"New Mission To Have New Use," SF Examiner, 10-14-06
"Big Screen Revival," SF Chronicle 04-23-06 |