One of the Garden State’s iconic theater venues recently marked a major milestone with the topping-off of a renovation project that will create a new gateway at Millburn’s Paper Mill Playhouse.
Dignitaries from the theater group and KSS Architects gathered to celebrate progress at the expansion of the F.M. Kirby Carriage House Restaurant, which is directly adjacent to the 1,200-seat theater. The endeavor looks to update the Carriage House’s façade to replicating the historic element of the theater on the south side of the building.
The plan seeks to re-envision the theater’s front and back of house as well as outdoor spaces surrounding the facility in hopes of furthering the organization’s mission of being the premier musical theater in the country.
“This moment represents more than a construction milestone—it’s about the collaboration, creativity, community, and care that have gone into reimagining Paper Mill Playhouse,” said Merilee Meacock, Partner at KSS Architects. “Paper Mill is a cultural cornerstone for New Jersey and beyond, and it’s an honor for our team to help ensure its spaces continue to inspire audiences, artists, and the community.”
The renovation project is designed to improve comfort, accessibility, and backstage functionality while preserving the Playhouse’s historic character. Patrons can look forward to a more welcoming environment, while performers and staff will benefit from enhanced facilities that support world-class productions.
The work is being undertaken by Denville-based Phelps Construction Group. Construction of the renovation hopes to be completed in January of next year, upon which the temporarily closed restaurant at the theater will re-open its doors.
“This is an exciting chapter in Paper Mill’s history,” said Mike Stotts, Executive Director of Paper Mill Playhouse. “The topping-off celebrates not just the building’s progress, but also the commitment of our partners and community to strengthening Paper Mill as a home for the performing arts. We can’t wait to welcome artists, performers, and audiences back for an even better experience.”
