The building has had many lives: a theatre, cinema, cabaret venue, pool hall and dance school, with elements of many incarnations preserved.

Now as the Lido Cinemas the old is dramatically contrasted with the new colour-blocked elements, highlighting the varied layers in the history of the building. A futuristic noir feel was inspired by the style of Godard’s film, Alphaville, using the darkness of the predominantly windowless space to create dramatic shadowy contrasts and colour plays.

Elements discovered in the building as the demolition progressed were incorporated: original round window openings on the street facade, and 1930s terrazzo floor was revived for new foyer.

The new cinemas work mainly within the existing roof space, with minimal space left for foyer below. Every available space was utilised under the cinemas, with finishes and lighting disguising the low ceilings etc.

The cinema bar is located on the first floor above the entry arcade. Its long, low, arched ceiling is squeezed under the cinemas above, but an illusion of spaciousness is maintained by the deep blue ceiling with strip lighting, and the multi-mirrored walls. Original Bictorian windows overlook Glenferrie Rd at one end of the foyer, relieving the subterranean feel.

At every turn there are elements from the history of the building: the terrazzo flooring, a massive riveted beam in the bar floor, glimpses of the original decorative plaster ceiling through ceiling peep holes, and the original marble and mosaic tiled exit stairs. These have all been knitted together with boldly coloured new elements – a technicolour reimagining of past glories.

The design was developed over a long period and was constantly adapted as elements of the existing building were uncovered during construction.

The colour-blocking of the cinemas with linked striped vinyl foyer floor gives dramatic contrasts between rooms, while still keeping a unified concept.

The dramatic strip lighting throughout suits the future noir theme – almost feeling like subway lights flashing past a speeding train.

The upper foyer has dramatically patterned vinyl floor to act as a pathway to the coloured cinemas beyond. The rooftop features an outdoor cinema with views over Glenferrie Rd.

The toilets feature wallpaper made from actual film scripts.

“It was a balancing act between accepting and adapting to new discoveries, while not losing sight of the original intent, commented designer Aidan Halloran. “Being open to serendipity is more challenging than rigidly pursuing a fixed result, and I think, can lead to a more enjoyable experience for the customer.
“At every turn there are elements from the history of the building: the terrazzo flooring, a massive riveted beam in the bar floor, glimpses of the original decorative plaster ceiling through ceiling peep holes, and the original marble and mosaic tiled exit stairs. These have all been knitted together with boldly coloured new elements - a technicolour reimagining of past glories.”