Padua Hills Theater – Claremont, CA

PADUA HILLS THEATRE
Pomona, California

PROJECT ROLE: Historic Tax Credits Application

The Padua Hills Theatre combines a historic theater an outdoor patio and event space. Located on the hilltop between Pomona and Claremont, California, the property offers panoramic views of the Claremont Mountains. The complex was built in 1928 as the centerpiece of an arts colony catering to local artists, actors and performers, many of Hispanic decent, who lived locally. This heritage was a key factor in the building and site being listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The complex was purchased by a local Pomona developer in 2009. The site was overgrown and neglected. The theater and buildings were in bad condition and needed immediate stabilization to forestall further deterioration.

Historic Consultants worked with the owner and local architects to prioritize immediate stabilization needs, as well as a Historic Preservation Certification Application, Parts 2, and 3. The plans focused on maintaining the architectural fabric while rehabilitating the buildings, site and grounds into a multi-purpose theatrical performance and banquet facility.

The real achievement was working with a landscape architect to maintain and re-establish the original olive grove in a way that respected the health of the original trees while creating a fully functional outdoor entertainment and wedding venue, all in conformance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards as a key aspect of the reuse of the site. Padua Hills is now a popular spot for weddings and outdoor performances, continuing the original tradition.