[4] It seated over 3000, and was the first "atmospheric" theater in Detroit, using lighting, special effects, and interior design to make the audience feel like they were sitting outdoors in a garden.

When the Fisher Theater reopened in 1960, however, the Grand Riviera took a back seat.

[3] The pavilion had arched, multi-paned windows and substantial cream terra cotta decoration.

To the north was the auditorium section which was built with windowless paneled brick walls.

[3] The original "atmospheric" interior elements included a simulated courtyard, a dark blue ceiling with inset electric "stars" and projected moving clouds, and walls with artificial trees and vines.