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    What’s Next: New Visions for the Clinton Theater

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    An architecture exhibition titled What’s Next: New Visions for Clinton Theater features the drawings and plans of three concepts that envision the future of the historic Clinton Theater and its adjacent properties, all of which are now facing impending demolition. Conceived and created by Columbus-based architect, Tim Lai, the three proposed concepts seek to transform the theater’s site into a community-focused space and (re)create a landmark in the Clintonville neighborhood.

    Located in the heart of Clintonville, just south of E. North Broadway on N. High Street, the once neighborhood theater opened in 1927 and continued to operate until 1973 when it was turned into a warehouse for the Clinton Electric Company. In recently years, the theater’s structure has significantly deteriorated and the public has declared it as an eyesore. Being cited for building code violations, the owner of the Clinton Electric Company and the theater buildings has planned to take down the faltering structures.

    The theater’s uncertain future has divided the Clintonville community. While some members have promoted an adaptive reuse of the aging building, others have preferred its immediate destruction. Although a variety of development ideas have been proposed, none is being actively pursued to date.

    A long-time resident of Clintonville, Lai has recognized both the theater’s historical significance and its potential for adaptive reuse. The three concepts showcased in the exhibition were inspired by Lai’s discussions with many passionate groups and individuals from the Clintonville community. The first concept proposes adapting the historical theater for the use of a public market, one that focuses on the promotion of local food. The second concept visualizes a park/ playground for the site, emphasizing the importance of a family-friendly green space for Clintonville. The third concept pursues a commercial and residential complex, which will lay the foundation for a future vibrant business corridor in Clintonville.

    What’s Next: New Visions of the Clinton Theater will be on view from September 15 to October 14 at the Starbucks in Clintonville, 3416 N. High Street.

    Image credit: Matthew Carbone

    More info can be found online at www.laiarchitect.com.

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    Walker Evans
    Walker Evanshttps://columbusunderground.com
    Walker Evans is the co-founder of Columbus Underground, along with his wife and business partner Anne Evans. Walker has turned local media into a full time career over the past decade and serves on multiple boards and committees throughout the community.
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