Proposals submitted for the rejuvenation of the Adelphi Theatre foyer and entrance 27.02.26

Proposals have been submitted to the City of Westminster for the rejuvenation of the Aldelphi Theatre foyer and entrance.

The Adelphi’s story is one of reinvention on a tight plot on the Strand in the City of Westminster, each rebuild layering new fabric over old, from the 19th-century expansion of London theatre to the assertive Art Deco ‘moderne’ that endures today. Listed in 1987 by Historic England, it stands as one of the West End’s clearest expressions of theatre modernity.

Our heritage-led design proposals, developed for The Adelphi Theatre Co. Ltd, improve the entrance and arrival experience by providing inclusive step-free access, optimising existing under-utilised spaces, relocating the ticket office towards the street, introducing a self-service drinks space and delivering a transformed and extended entrance and canopy.

Externally the existing canopy will be replaced with a new art deco design extending the full width of the new ticket office entrance and main entrance, with new black cladding complementing the retained painted faience tiles, also integrated extensive digital signage and feature lighting. The new ticket office has been optimised for user and visitor comfort using robust materials that are sympathetic to the existing and historic art deco palette whilst also enhancing the look and feel from both the street and within the foyer.

Internally, the foyer will be opened up to improve accessibility and entrance sequence with the ability to introduce a new self-service drinks area, alleviating congestion at the main bar. The project will also deliver a smaller but more efficient cloakroom and new toilet facilities. Existing finishes will be sensitively refreshed, optimising signage opportunities, with a sophisticated modern palette which enhances the character of the foyer and supports the operational requirements of the theatre whilst respecting its historic Art Deco past.

Hazel Joseph, AHMM Executive Director, comments “It’s exciting to be able to contribute to improving accessibility and elevate the audience experience of the Adelphi Theatre. Our sensitive yet transformational proposals are based on a respect for the intentions of the Art Deco fabric and aims to enable a cohesive reading of the ambitions of the original building.”