Architect-led tour of the Strand Arts Centre EHOD 2025

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The Royal Society of Ulster Architects (RSUA) invites you to attend an architect-led tour of The Strand Arts Centre in Belfast from 11:00 to 12:00 on 13 September 2025. The tour will be delivered by Bill McAllister of Hall Black Douglas Architects. There is no charge to attend, but pre-booking is essential.

The Strand Cinema was designed in 1935 by the eminent local Architect, John McBride Neill, and is Northern Ireland's last remaining 'picture house' from the Golden Age of Cinema, still in use as a cinema. Its location, along with its distinctive Art Deco architectural style, means that it is an instantly recognisable landmark for the population of East Belfast and beyond. In its original architectural form, it featured graceful curved walls and ceilings with 'porthole' lights and various 'streamline moderne' design features which combined to create the impression of being inside an ocean liner. In 1988 however, in response to the trend towards multiplex venues, the building was sub-divided into four smaller cinemas with the loss of much of its original grandeur. Its original brick and glazed terracotta facades were also over-clad with brightly painted cement render, tiles and metal canopies to create a more 'Miami-style' Art Deco theme. Unfortunately, its age has since caught up with it and the current restoration works will seek to restore its original character and reinforce its popularity as an entertainments venue and vital community resource; the scope of works will create three state of the art auditoria for cinema, live performances, conferences as well as flexible spaces with a welcoming entrance foyer, café, rest rooms, lifts and rest rooms with enhanced levels of accessibility and comfort for patrons. Note: This is an active building site, hard hats and high visibility vests will be provided and must be worn at all times. Attendees must wear robust footwear.