Monday, December 4, 2023
Rivian, the U.S. electric automaker, has revealed plans to inaugurate its flagship retail establishment, Rivian South Coast Theater, on December 9 in Southern California. Following meticulous restoration efforts, Rivian has transformed the space into a distinctive destination where visitors can explore its groundbreaking vehicles and partake in community events and theater programming that celebrate creativity and adventure.
Situated at 160 South Coast Highway, merely 15 miles from Rivian’s Irvine headquarters, Rivian South Coast Theater marks the company’s 11th space opening this year and the third in California, complementing existing locations in Venice Beach and an upcoming one in Pasadena. Spanning over 11,000 square feet, the theater stands as Rivian’s largest retail site, serving as a welcoming hub for the brand in an area it proudly calls home.
Tony Caravano, Senior Director of Experiential Marketing and Community Engagement at Rivian, expressed gratitude for becoming part of the Laguna Beach community and assuming stewardship of the South Coast Theater. He emphasized Rivian’s commitment to preserving the site’s legacy of innovation, community, and creativity while introducing new elements to deepen connections with owners, fans, and friends.
Originally established in 1935 as the New Lynn Theater, Rivian South Coast Theater underwent a meticulous, site-sensitive restoration to preserve its historical features. The restoration, conducted in collaboration with preservationists and community leaders, led to the site’s inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places in March 2023.
Remaining true to its original purpose, Rivian South Coast Theater will continue to screen films through a partnership with the Coast Film Foundation, a Laguna Beach-based non-profit known for its annual Coast Film & Music Festival. The foundation will collaborate with Rivian to curate films that align with Rivian’s mission to “Keep the World Adventurous Forever.”
The theater embodies Rivian’s deliberate approach to retail spaces, fostering a casual, family-friendly environment that goes beyond traditional automotive retail. The all-electric R1T pickup and R1S SUV, Rivian’s flagship products, will take center stage, allowing guests to explore them up close. Additionally, the theater’s Gear Shop will offer an expanded selection of brand merchandise, items from local artisans, and an exclusive collaboration with Orange County-based Almond Surfboards.
Equator Coffees, a women-founded and owned wholesale coffee roaster from Marin, California, will operate the theater’s on-site café—its first location in Orange County. Committed to ethical and sustainable sourcing, Equator Coffees will provide visitors with a selection of responsibly sourced coffee, pastries, and café menu items.
The opening weekend festivities, including family art workshops hosted by Laguna College of Art and Design (LCAD), are open to the public. Some events require reservations.
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
