It allows us to feel the same astonishment and wonder that its first visitors felt on Opening Night. Although it respects the past, a major restoration of this sort must also respond to the present. Changes in public expectation, building regulations and technology are reflected in the restoration's master plan. People today are accustomed to lighting levels three times as high as those in the 1930's, so lighting in the restored Hall is brighter than it was originally. Building code regulations are more stringent and infrastructure improvements have been introduced to address these issues, including access for th handicapped.
Advanced technology is integral to contemporary musical performance and television transmission.
The restoration process was a cross between a detective story and an archaeological dig. Researchers pored through historical archives, old photos and newspaper clippings for clues about the design of the original Hall. In the laboratory, technicians looked at samples under microscopes to identify the color and content of original materials. Experts in lighting, textiles, furniture and art restoration were called in. In compliance with its designation as a Historic Landmark in 1979, all work plans were approved by the New York City Landmarks Commission.