If you ever find yourself in front of the IFC Center on Sixth Avenue in West Village, take a moment to stop and look to the right of the ticket booths. There, you’ll notice a metal plaque sticking out from the wall at eye level. This is known as the IFC Center Peephole.
How does it work?
It’s simple: if you slide the metal shutters to one side and peek through them, you’ll get a chance to glimpse one of the films being screened inside, as if you’re sneaking a little visual trick.
This quirky detail is part of the building’s history. In 1937, the Waverly Theater occupied this space. Then, in 2001, the Waverly was transformed into the IFC Center thanks to a redesign by architect Larry Bogdanow.
But the real surprise came in 2009, when the IFC Center’s café was turned into theaters four and five. That’s when Bogdanow, known for his playful sense of humor, decided to install the peephole. According to the IFC Center, these kinds of architectural details, similar to an Easter egg, reflect the architect’s playful character and his desire to add a touch of surprise to the cinema experience.
How to get there?
IFC Center Theater. Located on the west side of 6th Ave. where it meets W. 3rd St. The viewing hole is approximately 50 feet to the right of the theater’s main entrance.