THE CALIFORNIA SURF STORY

JZMK Partners reimagined the 67,000-square-foot Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC) as a vibrant cultural destination celebrating Southern California’s rich surfing heritage.

The proposal transforms the existing transportation landmark into The California Surf Story, an immersive entertainment and educational museum designed to activate the iconic structure while honoring the region’s coastal culture. The project explores how adaptive reuse and experiential design can transform a transportation facility into a dynamic public destination.

The program includes a series of interactive museum galleries, digital media installations, and experiential exhibits that tell the story of California’s surf culture. Key components include an 8,000-square-foot Main Gallery, two 5,000-square-foot Central Gallery spaces, and a range of immersive experiences such as 14 virtual reality rooms, a digital media wall, large-format jumbotron displays, and an interactive “Big Wave” spire installation.

The design also incorporates public art, themed eateries, and an activated public plaza, creating a destination that blends education, entertainment, and community gathering within one of Southern California’s most recognizable architectural landmarks.

By reprogramming ARTIC as a cultural and experiential museum environment, the project demonstrates how adaptive reuse can transform iconic civic infrastructure into a vibrant destination that celebrates regional identity and public engagement.