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Smyrna Opera House

Smyrna, Delaware

ClientSmyrna Clayton Heritage Association

The Smyrna Opera House was constructed in 1867 and expanded in 1878. Fire destroyed the third floor and bell tower in 1948. The building’s first floor had served as city hall, police station and jail. Today the first floor accommodates the Smyrna Public Library. The second floor originally housed a theatre and other public assemblies; subsequently converted to a movie house, it stood vacant for many years.

Reconstruction and adaptive use of the old building, with an addition providing needed support facilities – stairs, elevator, mechanical equipment, toilets, and kitchen – were phased with fund-raising efforts.
The existing basement was deepened to provide storage for the library. To meet code standards, and to re-create a balcony in the theatre while providing a column free floor, required extensive structural improvements.

No documentation was available about the original interior appearance. We fashioned spaces consistent with that period while still accommodating contemporary needs.

Award Winning Design

Smyrna Clayton Heritage Association
Marvin Windows

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Smyrna Opera House

Cooperson Associates

1504 North French Street Wilmington DE, 19801 Hours: 8:00am to 5:00pm Monday thru Friday

Member of the American Institute of Architects

Phone: 302.655.1105 Fax: 302.655.1139 admin@coopersonassoc.com

Member of the American Institute of Architects

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design