A historic arthouse cinema located on Oxford Street in Sydney's Paddington neighborhood is being transformed into a comprehensive mixed-use development, according to plans submitted to the New South Wales Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI). The ambitious project for the Verona Cinema is being spearheaded by developer WT Malouf and designed by renowned local architectural firm Tonkin Zulaikha Greer (TZG).

The Verona Cinema building has a rich history spanning nearly eight decades. Originally constructed in 1946 as an industrial facility, the structure was later converted into a four-screen cinema complex when Palace Cinemas acquired it in 1995. Interestingly, TZG was also responsible for that earlier conversion project almost thirty years ago, bringing the architects full circle to work on the same building once again.

After closing its doors in 2010, the historic building sat vacant for an entire decade before the current developer purchased the site in 2021. The redevelopment plans have evolved significantly over the past few years, passing through multiple architectural firms and iterations. Initially, Scott Carver (now known as Studio SC) developed proposals for the site, first creating a six-story mixed-use commercial and retail scheme in 2022, followed by an expanded eight-story version in 2024.

The current proposal from TZG represents a more comprehensive approach by incorporating residential units into the development mix. The ambitious plans include several key components: a brand-new cinema operated by Golden Age featuring multiple screens and creative performance spaces, approximately 60 meters of retail frontage along Oxford Street specifically designed for small-scale businesses, and 53 residential apartments, with 15 of these designated as affordable housing units.

Architecturally, the development has been carefully designed to honor the building's cultural significance while modernizing its appearance. The iconic brick facade that has defined the Verona's presence on Oxford Street for nearly three decades will be preserved and extended, with a new entrance articulated in complementary red tones. Above the historic facade, the residential portion will feature a contemporary faceted design executed in blonde brick, creating a visual distinction between the historic and new elements.

The project also emphasizes improved urban connectivity and pedestrian access. According to the development team, landscaped public connections between South Dowling and Verona streets will significantly enhance walkability and accessibility in the area, contributing to the broader revitalization of the Oxford Street corridor.

Tim Greer, director at TZG, characterized the project as "a once-in-a-generation opportunity to restore this important part of Oxford Street." Jack Joseph, director at WT Malouf, emphasized the cultural significance of maintaining cinema in the area, stating, "At a time when Sydney is losing suburban cinemas, we're committed to creating a bigger and better cinema experience for Paddington. Golden Age's arrival will ensure Oxford Street continues to be a home for independent film, live performance and community events."

Barrie Barton, CEO at Golden Age Cinema and Bar, provided insight into the operator's vision for the space. "Cinema can be more than just watching a film – it can be the beating heart of a neighborhood," Barton explained. "We've seen how a cinema can anchor dining, music and social life, and we're excited to bring that same cultural energy to Paddington. Verona will be a chance to radically reimagine what a cinema can be for Sydney, not just preserving a much-loved institution but giving it new life in a way that reflects the city's creative future."

The development aligns with several key municipal and state planning initiatives. The project has been specifically designed to support the City of Sydney's Oxford Street Cultural and Creative Precinct strategy, as well as the NSW 24-Hour Economy Strategy. These alignments position the development as a catalyst for Oxford Street's revival as a safe, vibrant, and connected cultural precinct that operates both during the day and at night.

Joseph emphasized the broader community impact of the project, noting, "This development is about more than apartments. It's about contributing to Oxford Street's restoration as one of Sydney's great cultural boulevards, where people come to live, create and socialize." The mixed-use nature of the development is intended to create a dynamic environment that supports both residents and visitors throughout different times of day.

The project timeline extends into the latter half of this decade. The NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure is expected to make a determination on the proposal in 2026, with construction planned to commence later that same year. The development team anticipates that construction will be completed within three years of breaking ground, potentially bringing the revitalized Verona Cinema back to life by 2029.