Miller Theater Rehabilitation

The rehabilitation of the 1940s Miller Theater in Augusta, Georgia, is a preservation-focused project that highlights the importance of maintaining the integrity of one of the few remaining Art Moderne-style buildings in the country. Originally a grand movie palace and an architectural icon in the region, the theater had been closed since 1984 and faced significant deterioration. Lord Aeck Sargent, in partnership with 2KM Architects, led the effort to meticulously restore the building’s historic features, including its iconic aluminum ticket booth, terrazzo flooring, plasterwork, wood and marble details, and the distinct stucco and glass block façade. Preservation of the theater’s Art Moderne elements was central to the project, ensuring that original design features were carefully maintained or replicated, while subtle modernizations, such as improvements to acoustics and accessibility, were integrated to enhance functionality. This approach ensured that the Miller Theater could continue to serve as a cultural landmark in Augusta, preserving its historical significance for future generations.