Design Republic was commissioned by CBS to undertake the sensitive restoration and modernization of the iconic Ed Sullivan Theater—a New York City Landmark and one of broadcast television’s most storied venues. Located at 1697 Broadway, the theater has served as the backdrop for historic cultural moments, from The Beatles' U.S. debut to the long-running Late Show with David Letterman, and now, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.

This transformative renovation bridges nearly a century of performance history with the demands of 21st-century broadcast technology. The design team meticulously restored the theater’s original 1927 architectural details while integrating advanced digital infrastructure to support today’s production needs. A key design gesture was the unveiling of the original plaster dome—long obscured by mechanical and lighting equipment—which is now reimagined as a dynamic digital canvas, animated through projection-mapped virtual frescoes.

Additional heritage elements, including the stained-glass windows and the ornate central theater lantern, were reinstated after decades in storage, returning the space to its original brilliance. The revitalized auditorium now welcomes audiences into a bright, soaring volume that honors the building’s legacy while embracing its future.

Beyond the theater itself, the renovation included significant upgrades to talent support spaces, production offices, and circulation areas. Enhancements to the Broadway-facing exterior include a redesigned signature marquee, new illuminated signage, and a reimagined “Elvis” stage door. Crowning the project is a bespoke rooftop lounge—a private après-show retreat for guests and staff, offering a rare moment of respite high above the city.

Executed between hosting tenures, this carefully choreographed renovation has elevated every aspect of the audience, talent, and production experience, ensuring the Ed Sullivan Theater continues to serve as a cultural beacon and the home of late night’s most-watched show.