Loveland's Restored Pulliam Community Building to Reopen November 8
The historic Pulliam Community Building will celebrate its completion of a comprehensive restoration with a grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony on November 8 from 1 to 3 p.m., marking the return of one of Loveland's most significant architectural landmarks as a modern event venue.
The building at 545 Cleveland Avenue in downtown Loveland has been closed to the public during a 20-month renovation that transformed the Depression-era structure into a contemporary community gathering space while preserving its distinctive 1930s Art Deco architectural character.
Constructed between 1937 and 1939 with Works Progress Administration support and a $20,000 donation from David T. and Lillian Pulliam, the building served as Loveland's central venue for celebrations, performances and civic gatherings for eight decades. The structure now includes three renovated rental spaces: the Gullikson Banquet Room, FNBO Conference Suite, and Rehme Ballroom.
Extensive Restoration Preserves Architectural Heritage
The renovation team focused on maintaining the building's original character while incorporating modern functionality, according to the city. Crews restored the ballroom's original maple wood floors, installed an ADA-compliant stage lift, and updated production equipment including new lighting and sound systems.
The ballroom features custom replica lighting fixtures designed in the 1930s Art Deco style but modernized with LED technology to meet current energy and building code standards.
One of the largest restoration efforts addressed the building's Lamella roof over the auditorium. According to the city, this represents one of the few remaining wood Lamella roof structures in the country. Crews installed a new roof while repairing or replacing the interior inset panels of the distinctive structural system.
Workers also restored original wood doors and replicated the historical trim surrounding them throughout the building.
Balcony Remains Closed to Public
The city cannot open the building's balcony to the public because it does not meet current building code or ADA accessibility standards. The press release did not specify what modifications would be required to bring the balcony into compliance or whether future work is planned.
The renovation required careful coordination among engineers, architects and preservation specialists to balance structural integrity, accessibility upgrades and preservation of architectural details, according to the city.
$9.5 Million Project Funded Through Partnership
The restoration was funded through $9,542,994 from multiple sources, mirroring the public-private partnership model that built the structure during the Great Depression.
In 2023, the project received a $1 million federal grant through Congressman Joe Neguse's office. The City of Loveland allocated $7,216,984 from the General Fund across 2022 and 2023. The Pulliam Community Building Foundation, a nonprofit organization established to support the building, contributed $1 million. An additional grant of $326,010 funded heating, ventilation and air conditioning work.
Construction began in 2019 but was delayed due to funding issues. Groundbreaking for the current phase occurred on February 22, 2024.
Modern Systems Support Event Hosting
The renovated building features energy-efficient mechanical systems with upgraded heating and cooling, new kitchen appliances, and integrated audiovisual technology including internet connectivity, monitors, stage lighting and a professional sound system.
Exterior improvements include new landscaping, a marquee sign, steel canopies and a flagpole marking the building's location in downtown Loveland.
The building will be available for meetings, performances, community celebrations and weddings. Rental information and space descriptions are available at lovgov.org/pulliam.
The ribbon cutting ceremony will take place at 1:30 p.m. on the Pulliam stage during the November 8 grand opening event. Self-guided tours of the building spaces will be open to the public, with light refreshments provided.