Venue
The project involved a myriad of complications - how to make an older venue work with the latest building codes. AD's team spent significant time planning and coordinating with the venue's management to ensure we understood the unique challenges and goals of their business..
Ultimately, the building was divided into multiple functional areas to accommodate diverse activities within the building. The new layout includes two kitchen spaces, five bars, a theater, two stages, and designated areas for both general admission and minors. Additional spaces were creatively integrated, such as dancing areas, merchandise sales, various seating arrangements, and exclusive lounges for patrons and visiting band members. The building also houses a hotel, classified as residential space, and essential utility areas like storage and mechanical rooms.
One of the most challenging aspects of the project was ensuring compliance with health and liquor regulations. Moreover, the significant increase in occupancy from the original tenant demanded extensive structural and fire code upgrades, including the installation of a new sprinkler system throughout the building, which had previously lacked such modern safety features.
Throughout the renovation, continuous collaboration with The Crocodile's team was essential. Our team frequently relied on the venue's staff for additional measurements and photographs to overcome the challenges of not being able to measure the entire space themselves due to COVID-19 restrictions during the process. The outcome of this highly collaborative effort is a visually striking and highly functional venue that respects its iconic status while enhancing its infrastructure to meet contemporary standards and user needs.
