Previously the site of Pacific View Elementary School until its closing in 2003, the City of Encinitas wanted to utilize this abandoned facility for something that would represent and enhance the community. It was decided to convert the space into an Arts Education Center, offering a variety of art classes and mediums for the public to enjoy.

COAR was enlisted for this renovation project to make the building suitable for use. Since the current facility had been vacant for many years, the project started with an assessment and analysis of feasibility for the intended improvements. Construction documents were then developed, working closely with the City of Encinitas to balance their project goals with their available budget.

The newly renovated Arts Center features eight classrooms, each home to a different art medium. The exterior color palette was developed with input from a local focus group and voted on by residents of the Encinitas Community. The bright exterior well-represents this vibrant, beach-front community.

The rehabilitation included site and building improvements with a total overhaul of the Electrical, Plumbing and HVAC systems, seismic upgrades, new sprinkler system, new roofing, all new interior finishes, and a new entrance portal.

When repurposing the existing facilities, COAR made efforts to preserve sentimental features of the previous elementary school site, including the original classroom windows and hopscotch squares painted on the sidewalk. New wood shades over the classroom doors included wood recycled from the site’s original trellises. COAR also worked with city officials and arborists to preserve the existing Juniper Tree at the main entrance by altering the route of the fire main line. These pieces of the past will help propel the center into a bright future.

COAR is proud to have helped bring this community-focused project to the City of Encinitas so it can serve the citizens of Encinitas for years to come.