Paramount Theatre

Originally opened in 1915 as the Majestic Theatre, the Paramount is one of Austin’s most important landmarks and among the oldest continuously operating theaters in Texas. When the theatre joined the Paramount-Publix chain in around 1930, new decorative schemes were introduced, reflecting evolving tastes and its expanded role as a movie palace and performance venue.

EverGreene was retained by CPM Texas to conduct a historic finishes investigation in advance of planned renovations. The investigation revealed that the auditorium was originally decorated with a mottled rag finish executed in distemper paints. Selected elements of Classical Revival cast ornament were highlighted with bronze paint. Later redecorations introduced increasingly elaborate Baroque Revival elements, culminating in the 1930 program of stenciled ceilings, damask-inspired wall treatments, painted scrollwork, and enriched ornament. Visual examination and microscopic paint analysis confirmed the survival of significant 1930 finishes suitable for in-place conservation, including stenciled acoustical plaster ceilings, painted scrollwork at the proscenium and auditorium ceiling, the St. Cecilia mural, and inner lobby stencils. Historic rag finishes were also identified on cast ornament beneath later overpaint campaigns.

Based on these findings, EverGreene recommended selectively conserving surviving historic finishes and repainting areas of loss or overpaint to accurately match the documented 1930 colors and techniques. Within the inner lobby, original rag finishes beneath later layers were recommended for restoration to reestablish the historic character. The investigation provided essential documentation to guide historically accurate restoration while supporting thoughtful updates that honor the Paramount Theatre’s architectural legacy. The restoration is still ongoing.