Project Data:

Completion Date:     12/8/2023

Square Footage:      12289

Building Use:           Community hub, theater

Project Description:

Our team collaborated with Rivian to revitalize the historic South Coast Theater in Laguna Beach, transforming it into Rivian's first flagship retail space. Following a meticulous restoration of character-defining elements, the space has been reimagined as a unique destination where visitors can explore, engage in community events, and enjoy theater programming that celebrates creativity and adventure.
Located at 162 South Coast Highway, the Rivian South Coast Theater underwent a multiyear, site-sensitive restoration to preserve much of the structure’s original exterior and interior features. For nearly 80 years, the South Coast Theater was the only theater in Laguna before closing in 2015. Our team has collaborated with Rivian to maintain the theater’s iconic façade, ticket booth, lobby area, auditorium, proscenium arch, and the original 129-seat theater area. The team also incorporated the reconstruction of missing documented historical features such as the original marquee, Juliet balcony, doors, window fenestration, wood shutters, and the basket weaved pattern brick in the courtyard. The distinctive vertical tower, star-shaped ceiling light fixture, and murals have all been preserved, keeping the unique features and character of this historic place alive. The theater received a historic designation on the National Register of Historic Places in March 2023.

The renovated space now also offers an expanded selection of brand merchandise, goods by local artisans, and exclusive offerings from collaborations with Orange County-based Almond Surfboards and Equator Coffee at the theater’s on-site café.

The South Coast Theater will now serve as a cultural hub for the neighborhood, connecting local communities and visitors to the rich history and vibrant future of Laguna Beach.

Design for Integration, Design for Equitable Communities, Design for Change, Design for Discovery 

Design for Integration

The concept behind the project is to revitalize the historic South Coast Theater in Laguna Beach, transforming it into Rivian's flagship retail space while preserving its historical significance. The priorities within the nine other principles inform the unique approach by emphasizing restoration, community engagement, and discovery. These principles guide the project in maintaining the theater's original charm, ensuring that it serves as a cultural hub that celebrates creativity and adventure while also promoting economic and social benefits for the local community.
This project honors and maintains the historical and cultural significance of the South Coast Theater, a beloved landmark in Laguna Beach. For nearly 80 years, the South Coast Theater was the only theater in Laguna before closing in 2015. By preserving original features and adding modern updates that respect the building's heritage, the project fosters a sense of community and connection to the past. The theater's designation on the National Register of Historic Places emphasizes its importance, making it an asset the community will cherish for future generations.
The design strategies that provide multiple benefits include:
Social Value: By restoring the theater and transforming it into a cultural hub, the project fosters community engagement, social interaction, and local pride. Hosting community events and supporting local artisans through merchandise sales strengthen social ties and enhance cultural vibrancy.
Economic Value: The revitalization attracts visitors and boosts local tourism, benefiting nearby businesses. The inclusion of an on-site café and collaboration with local brands like Almond Surfboards creates economic opportunities and supports the local economy.
Environmental Value: The site-sensitive restoration approach emphasizes sustainability by preserving the existing structure and reducing the need for new construction materials. This adaptive reuse minimizes environmental impact and promotes the conservation of historical resources.

Design for Equitable Communities

The project aims to transform the historic South Coast Theater into Rivian's first flagship retail space, creating a cultural hub that celebrates creativity, community engagement, and the history of Laguna Beach. It also promotes local artisans and businesses, fostering economic growth and cultural richness.
By preserving the theater's historic elements and incorporating modern amenities, the project enhances the community’s cultural landscape. The inclusion of a café and local artisan goods promotes walkability and accessibility. Hosting community events and theater programming encourages diversity and social interaction in a human-scaled, inclusive environment.
The theater currently hosts a variety of community events and workshops that invite the greater community into the space free of cost, encouraging collaboration and discovery for visitors and Laguna Beach residents.
The theater can function as a community center during emergencies, providing a safe space for shelter and information dissemination.

Design for Change

The project is designed for adaptation through its multifunctional space, which can host a variety of activities such as community events, theater programming, and retail experiences. This flexibility allows the theater to adapt to changing market demands and societal needs. The incorporation of modern amenities alongside historical features ensures that the space remains relevant and useful for the community.

Design for Discovery

Strategies to promote a sense of discovery and delight include preserving and highlighting unique historical features while integrating modern elements that enhance the visitor experience. The preservation of the iconic façade, marquee, and original theater elements creates a nostalgic sense of discovery. The integration of brand merchandise, goods by local artisans, and exclusive collaborations add layers of surprise and engagement. The space itself, with its star-shaped ceiling light fixture and murals, offers visual and experiential delights, making each visit memorable and fostering a deep connection with the space.

Completion Date:     12/8/2023

Square Footage:      12289

Building Use:           Community hub, theater

Location:                 154-162 S Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Rivian Automotive

RDC

Rivian Automotive

IMEG Group
KGM Architectural Lighting

Swinerton

Dunbar Architecture (Historical Preservation Consultant)
Chattel, Inc (Historical Preservation Consultant)
Jensen Hughes (Code Consultants)
Myers Food Service Design (Kitchen Equipment Consultant)

544 Media