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Barrymore Film Center and Museum
Located in Fort Lee—the birthplace of American cinema—the Barrymore Film Center is a singular destination dedicated to this distinguished role of the town.
Working closely with the architect to design a building expressive of its civic and cultural purpose, DeSimone provided structural engineering services for the project, which encompasses a 250-seat, single-screen theater and a 1,950 SF exhibition space.
| Client | Fort Lee Film Commission |
|---|---|
| Architect: | H3 |
| Size | 3 Stories | 21,000 SF (1,950 SM) |
| Office: | New York |
| Completion: | 2021 |
The steel-framed structure supports long-span theater volumes and integrates exposed steel elements at the entry canopy and interior stair. For the stair itself, which serves as a dynamic architectural focal point, we performed detailed vibration analysis to ensure comfort and performance during high-traffic events.
Beyond the main theater and museum, the center also offers public amenities including concessions lobby and gift shop, as well as backstage areas, such as dressing rooms, a prop and scene shop, and storage areas. Operated by the Fort Lee Film Commission, the facility also hosts festivals, screenings, and exhibitions in collaboration with institutions like the Museum of the Moving Image and NYU's Costume Studies Program.
Commissioned as a public give-back associated with adjacent private development, the center strengthens Fort Lee’s connection to its cinematic legacy.
