In an idyllic open-air setting in a park by the ocean, the historic Plaza del Mar Band Shell was for years a beloved and unique performance venue and gathering place for the community. In the past few decades it gradually fell into a state of decline and was sporadically used. The pandemic saw more people looking for outdoor places to gather, which prompted a desire to revitalize the Band Shell for safer ways to be together and enjoy the Santa Barbara climate.

One of the most challenging aspects of the project was determining how to retrofit the Band Shell with an accessible ramp. Utilizing the original blueprints, the project team developed a 3D model of the structure. This allowed the team to try different solutions before deciding to wrap the ramp around the back of the building. The solution provides a gentle grade while preserving the stage’s historic appearance.

The historic Band Shell represents a period in history when music was not readily available at the touch of a phone app. It has been used for many decades by the community, and its grand reopening last year marked a renewed era for this once deteriorating performance venue.