Tempe Historic Property Survey

This building is significant as being part of the Work Progress Administration construction projects of the Arizona State Teachers College (now ASU). It was designed by Alexander & Burton. The total construction cost of the building was $48,000. The local construction superintendent was James A. Rohan. In 1953, the basement was remodelled.

The Lyceum Theater demonstrates the influence of Frank LLoyd Wright on American architecture through its massing and detailing. The flat roofs with deep overhangs which top building masses of various heights are signature features of Wrights Usonian houses. Clerestory windows bring natural light into the high-ceilinged lobby. The recently added stage and fly loft is so much overscaled and dissimilarly detailed from the original south end of the building that it does not even appear to be part of the original building and thus does not effect its architectural integrity.

Go to Tempe Historic Property Survey