The Byron Carlyle Theater has long stood as a cultural and historical icon in North Beach, Miami Beach – Originally opened in 1968, it was the largest theater in South Florida, featuring twin cinemas that showcased first-run films.
Over time, the theatre was converted into a multiplex before eventually being acquired by the City of Miami Beach in 2001. Despite partial renovations and attempts to breathe new life into the space, the theater permanently closed in 2019, leaving residents and city officials searching for a new purpose for this historic landmark.
Now, the Byron Carlyle Theater is set to undergo a major transformation, revitalizing North Beach’s arts and culture scene with a dynamic, multi-use redevelopment plan, and ensuring that this historic landmark continues to serve as a beacon for community engagement and creative expression.
A New Vision for the Byron Carlyle Theater
The City of Miami Beach is taking decisive action to restore the Byron Carlyle Theater, with a vision to establish a multi-institution artistic and cultural center that mirrors the vibrancy of South Beach’s arts scene. Plans for the theater’s redevelopment include a mix of community-driven spaces such as:
- A modern movie theater and black box performance space
- Art studios and a recording studio to support the creative community
- Children’s arts education programs
- Office space for local arts organizations
- Affordable housing integrated into the complex
- A café and potential retail spaces
Led by Commissioner Tanya Bhatt, the ambitious revitalization project is backed by over $30 million in bond funding approved in 2022. The goal is simple: to create a financially self-sustaining venue, where rental income from commercial and residential spaces supports operational costs – rather than relying on long-term taxpayer funding.
WGI’s Role in Preserving the Byron Carlyle Theater
As part of the redevelopment effort, WGI has been entrusted with an essential task: conducting ongoing structural condition assessments of the existing building to ensure safety and stability until full renovations commence. Our team has been tasked with conducting a visual structural condition assessment every 180 days, producing detailed reports to guide preservation efforts.
The first assessment, conducted in October 2024, determined that the building did not require immediate emergency repairs. However, recommendations to prevent further deterioration were provided, such as:
- Restoring climate-controlled conditions within the building
- Replacing exterior doors to prevent water intrusion
- Installing a new roof to protect against weather-related damage
The City of Miami Beach has accepted WGI’s first report, and our next site visit is scheduled for April 2025. These ongoing assessments will ensure that Byron Carlyle remains safe, structurally sound, and ready for the much-anticipated transformation that lies ahead.
A Brighter Future for North Beach
The revival of the Byron Carlyle Theater is more than just a renovation – it’s a commitment to the cultural and economic future of North Beach. By transforming the theater into a dynamic, multi-use arts and community center, Miami Beach is preserving its rich history while providing new opportunities for residents, artists, and visitors alike.
WGI is honored to be part of this important project, contributing our expertise in structural assessments to help guide the preservation and transformation of this historic venue. As the redevelopment moves forward, we look forward to seeing the Byron Carlyle Theater once again become a vibrant cornerstone of North Beach’s cultural landscape.
Stay tuned for updates as we continue to monitor and support the Byron Carlyle Theater’s journey toward renewal and transformation!
