The building combines architectural elements from multiple periods, reflecting its original construction, a major interwar expansion, post-fire reconstruction, and the most recent renovation.
1913 The original theater entrance was built on a recessed site approximately 72 feet from the street, with a covered walkway leading to its doors. Robert Lafferty, the president of the Clarksburg Amusement Company, worked with architect
Ernest C. S. Holmboe to design the theater. The theater's architectural style was heavily influenced by
George M. Cohan's Theatre in New York City. The design included a large stage to accommodate potential future expansions.
1927 In 1927, the Robinson Grand underwent an expansion and remodel, again under the direction of Holmboe. The building's footprint expanded to encompass the entire lot, resulting in a significant increase in seating capacity. The expanded building accommodated an additional 500 patrons, for a total of 1,500 seats. The exterior featured Neo-Gothic architecture, including three Gothic-arched windows above the marquee and terra cotta pilasters and finials that provided vertical emphasis. At ground level, the main entrance featured a Tudor arch, adorned with intricate terra cotta details that included trefoil arches, foliage panels, and coffers. Narrow windowpanes framed by Moorish arch motifs spanned the storefront transoms. A canopy marquee read "Keith Grand/Vaudeville/Feature Pictures." The building was decorated in a ninth-century English garden theme by J.H. Wickstead and William G. Schulte, interior decorators from Louisville, Kentucky. Murals depicted stone walls, lush greenery, rolling hills, and castles. The mezzanine level housed an "Old English" lounge, reminiscent of manor house rooms.
1939 The 1939 reconstruction, which stands today, preserved the original 1927 façade while introducing a new stage and auditorium designed in the
Streamline Moderne style, under the guidance of architect Edward J. Wood.
1980s The building changed ownership in 1984 and was subsequently remodeled. Original wallpaper from this period adorns the lobby, mezzanine, and restrooms. The enclosed mezzanine overlooks and mirrored panels installed during this era remain in the lobby.
Current remodel In 2014, the city of Clarksburg took ownership of the structure and began restoration. The project included restoration of the exterior, including the iconic windows, and added a new marquee featuring LED lighting and video display capabilities. Inside the lobby, the original chandeliers, terrazzo flooring, water fountains, and grand staircases have been restored. The
coved plaster ceilings and antique
air diffusers in the performance hall have been preserved. The grand proscenium design, stage, and ballroom remain largely untouched, along with the original flooring and decorative glass displays. The project also introduced modern amenities, including a concession area, expanded restrooms, a green room, and dressing rooms with direct stage access. Additionally, the basement level now includes improved drainage and a dedicated orchestra green room. This renovation resulted in a performance hall that accommodates nearly 1,000 patrons. The second floor features an educational center, equipped with a prep kitchen, a circular bar, and lounge areas. == Cost ==