#USA #Newburgh #Epson Projector #Common Projects

Transforming an Empty Lot into a Cultural Hub

In Newburgh, New York, a city hailed as a burgeoning film production center, the 2023 closure of the last movie theater left locals yearning for artistic outlets. In response, architects Amy Shell and Razvan Voroneanu stepped in to breathe new life into the cultural fabric of this vibrant community. They co-founded Common Projects Newburgh, an initiative dedicated to revitalizing underutilized urban spaces through innovative architectural projects and cultural programming.

Their latest endeavor, Cinemabox, transforms a vacant lot into a dynamic outdoor pavilion equipped with state-of-the-art multimedia technology powered by an Epson Pro Series laser projector. It aims to host film screenings, digital art exhibits, and various community events, providing a space for creativity and collaboration.

A Vision Come to Life

The Cinemabox, a testament to collaborative design and technology, stands as both a pavilion by day and a cinema by night, inviting artists, storytellers, and community members to contribute to its programming. The project has deep roots; Shell and Voroneanu first conceptualized it during their time in Columbia University's Graduate School of Architecture, Planning, and Preservation (GSAPP). After years of research and design, groundwork began in 2023, culminating in the pavilion's completion in October 2025, which now plays a crucial role in Newburgh's urban landscape, just a stone's throw from the downtown center.

"Our goal with the Cinemabox is to fuse film production and architectural design, creating an interdisciplinary space where community and creativity intersect," shared Voroneanu. The Cinemabox is meticulously crafted as a six-module steel structure measuring 19 by 18 feet at the base and reaching a height of 13 feet, complete with a 20 by 10-foot stage. A pioneering display solution was key to the project, particularly a projector capable of withstanding diverse environmental conditions.

The Power of Projection

The chosen Epson Pro Series projector boasts impressive brightness and durability, ensuring that all content displayed within the Cinemabox looks vibrant and sharp, regardless of the nature of the event. It is designed to be easily transportable; it features foldable polycarbonate doors and encases a 240-inch screen with an advanced rear projection system that allows smooth setup and teardown between events.

"Initially, we faced challenges around the projector's mounting and movement due to the outdoor nature of the venue," explained Shell. "Using Epson's suggested projector frame, we secured the projector during transport and set it up for easy adjustments on our custom-built railing system, enhancing our ability to adapt for various content types. Furthermore, we designed a lift system for additional mobility, with guidance from Epson that proved invaluable."

A Community-Engaged Space

What began as an architectural school project exploring Newburgh and the Hudson Valley has now evolved into a permanent space for community storytelling and engagement. The journey to realize Cinemabox has been an enriching experience for Shell and Voroneanu, particularly as they navigated the complexities of full-time jobs while bringing this vision to fruition, supported by key collaborators like their skilled welder friend Stuart Sachs and the innovative tools provided by Epson.

Ramzi Shakra, senior product manager at Epson America, expressed enthusiasm about the project: "When Amy and Razvan approached us, their architectural vision sparked immediate excitement. We were eager to supply technology that would help illuminate this unique space."

Through their endeavor, Shell and Voroneanu have established a new model for community engagement in the arts, inviting residents to experience film and culture in an open, shared space. Cinemabox not only revives the local arts scene but fosters a collaborative environment that connects individuals across various disciplines, showcasing the transformative power of architecture and design in enhancing civic life.

Conclusion

As this cultural hub continues to evolve, it highlights the importance of accessible spaces for community engagement in the arts. The Cinemabox not only marks the rebirth of shared cultural experiences in Newburgh but also stands as a model for similar initiatives in cities across the nation.