Rivian Theater Redux In Laguna Beach

LAGUNA BEACH, CA — The Laguna Beach, Historic Preservation Coalition has agreed to get out of the way of electric car dealer Rivian and their redesign of the historic Laguna South Coast Cinemas.

The plan for Rivian's Laguna Beach headquarters was in question after a resident stood in the project's way. Catherine Jurca appealed to the Laguna Beach city council regarding the project, speaking for the Laguna Beach Historic Preservation Coalition. Their goal was to maintain the "historic fabric of Laguna," according to a report in the Laguna Beach Independent.

Plans are in the works for Rivan to add the property to the National Register of Historic Places and the Laguna Beach Historic Register they have pledged. Murals in the property will be restored, according to Mayor Bob Whalen.

According to Rivian, the redesign would change the building's footprint slightly but not change the historic details.

The building originally opened in 1934 as the New Lynn Theater. It has served as a stage for Vaudeville performances, has been the place for movie premieres and opening nights. For years, it has sat empty, waiting for a new life.

Under ownership by Rivian, the building may be just what Laguna Beach needs for the next chapter in its storied history.

The interior will be carefully updated, as many of the finishes were either not original or have not survived the theater's transitions. Several signature interior details will be restored, said Denise Cherry, Senior Director of Facilities Design at Rivian.

A date of project completion has yet to be released, though city council members hoped for the end of 2021, but now looks to be the end of 2023.

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