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The Former Pavilion Theater Launches as Nitehawk Prospect Park (Photos)
The former Pavilion Theater in Park Slope has been meticulously transformed into the new Nitehawk Prospect Park, a cinema-eatery at 188 Prospect Park West. This 1920s movie house, originally opened in 1928 as the Sanders Theater, operated until 1978 before reopening as the Pavilion in 1995. Despite a less-than-favorable reputation over the years, the Pavilion ceased operations in 2016, paving the way for Nitehawk's renovation project.
Nitehawk acquired the property and commenced renovation work in 2016. Initial tours of the interior in the fall of 2017 revealed ongoing conversion efforts, with several 1920s-era architectural details still visible amidst the construction. The original theater was designed by architect Harrison G. Wiseman, in collaboration with Magnuson & Kleinert Associates. Wiseman, a prolific architect, was responsible for the design of over 20 theaters in New York City, including the Egyptian-inspired Cameo Theater on Eastern Parkway.
A recent visit to the completed interiors confirms that many of these historic 1920s elements have been successfully preserved and integrated into the new design. Decorative moldings, marble steps, and ceiling medallions are among the details that survived the extensive renovation. While no original historic light fixtures were found, contemporary fixtures have been thoughtfully installed, suspended from the restored 1920s-era ceiling medallions, ensuring that the historical aesthetic is maintained while meeting modern functional requirements.
During the renovation process, an original balcony was uncovered, and its underlying structure is now prominently displayed in a newly created public hallway, offering a glimpse into the building's past. A new marker in the lobby has been installed to honor the building's rich history, providing context and acknowledging its previous incarnations. The marble steps, which were discovered hidden beneath layers of old carpeting, have undergone meticulous restoration, regaining their original splendor and serving as a focal point in the revitalized space.
Further enhancing the historical character, various bits of original trim were unearthed, meticulously restored, and painted in a brilliant gold hue, adding a touch of period elegance. More ornate trim located on the second floor has also been repainted and seamlessly incorporated into a hallway situated behind the new upstairs bar area, blending historical elements with contemporary functionality. In the hallways leading to the seven distinct theater spaces, the original brickwork has been deliberately left exposed, and rigging elements from the former theater have been preserved, creating a raw and authentic industrial aesthetic. Matthew Viragh, the founder of Nitehawk, noted that additional ropes and pulleys were salvaged during the renovation, further emphasizing the commitment to retaining the building's historical integrity.
Part of the original marquee from the theater's time as the Pavilion has been saved and is slated for display within the remodeled space, serving as a nostalgic reminder of its past. The Nitehawk includes a lounge area in the mezzanine; however, the distinctive and quirky murals that characterized the Pavilion days have been removed. Below the mezzanine, a new downstairs bar area provides an additional social space. The newly opened Nitehawk Prospect Park boasts seven theaters with a combined seating capacity of 650. In addition to screening both mainstream and independent films, there are plans to host live performances and various programming events, transforming the venue into a versatile cultural hub for the community.
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