Severely damaged in the 1994 Northridge earthquake , Royce Hall underwent a $ 70.5 million seismic renovation . Designed by architects , Barton Phelps & Associates and Anshen Allen Los Angeles and completed in 1998 , the project combined structural strengthening and functional improvements with extensive interior updating . The iconic towers were strengthened and restored on an emergency basis . The project for the 200,000 square foot building itself inserted a new , six-story structural system of concrete panels located in the auditorium walls and connected by concrete beams to the building 's historic exterior brickwork . Eligibility for National Register listing prompted FEMA earthquake resistance requirements well beyond normal safety levels and triggered close design scrutiny by preservation officers . The new " soft " structure is designed to respond in unison with original masonry infill to provide maximum earthquake resistance and protect the building 's historic fabric from damage
1994 Northridge earthquake
1994 Northridge earthquake
Royce Hall