Envisioning OMA's Expansion
Daring and innovative, OMA breaks stereotypes of what a museum can be.
This major campus expansion, designed by San Diego firm Safdie Rabines Architects, is a significant milestone in OMA's growth, extending the Museum campus to a full city block of activated art space while stewarding two Irving J. Gill landmarks — the former 1934 City Hall and the 1929 Fire Station No. 1.
Construction is anticipated to begin in early 2027, with a projected public dedication date in spring 2028.
Looking Forward
The centerpiece of OMA’s expansion is the restoration of historic Fire Station No. 1, preserving the legacy of renowned modernist architect Irving J. Gill by bringing this landmark building back to its original 1929 exterior design. With the addition of the Fire Station, OMA’s footprint will increase from 20,000 to 30,000 square feet, adding new capacity for exhibitions, a dedicated education center, and a new roster of public programs. Outdoor space will be expanded, allowing for additional public art, an informal gathering terrace, and a café. The design improves circulation between galleries, public areas, and outdoor plazas, with indoor and outdoor experiences flowing together and creating new opportunities to showcase Southern California artists within the Oceanside Cultural District.
Increase of Exhibition Gallery Space
- More compelling exhibitions
- Expanded Permanent Collection
- Expanded public art and outdoor sculpture
Inspiration for the Next Generation
- A dedicated arts education center
- Dedicated community exhibition space
- Increased access for art-making and art appreciation
Honoring Architectural Heritage
- Fire Station No. 1 restored to its original 1929 Irving J. Gill exterior design
- Public access to an historic resource
- Preservation of a local legacy
Enhancing Spaces to Gather and Linger
- Small cafe
- Sculpture garden with native plantings
- Enhanced visitor amenities
- Larger, more flexible event spaces
A Glimpse Into the Planned Expansion
Click the video below to see a flythrough of a potential concept of the planned OMA expansion, courtesy of Safdie Rabines Architects. Note that all images, concepts, and layouts suggested in this flythrough video and on this page are for informational purposes only, are subject to change, and should not be used without express permission from OMA and Safdie Rabines Architects.
About the Architects
Safdie Rabines Architects, the design team for OMA’s expansion, is a local firm with a long history of contributing to the region’s architecture, including numerous civic buildings and the campuses of UC San Diego and UCLA. The firm’s design for OMA brings a contemporary approach that respects the historic architectural integrity of Fire Station No. 1. Built in 1929 and designed by pioneering modernist architect Irving J. Gill, Fire Station 1 will be restored to reflect its original design, including its signature arches, windows, and historic fire hose drying tower. The renovation leverages Gill’s signature arcades to connect OMA’s central pavilion and terrace with surrounding outdoor spaces enhanced with sculpture, public art, gardens, public gathering spaces, and landscape elements.