Bickel Group Celebrates 35 Years

Newport Beach, CA - Bickel Group Architecture, a respected and award-winning architecture firm recognized for expertise in custom commercial, adaptive reuse, and community-centric projects, today celebrates its 35th anniversary. Since going into business on November 1, 1991, Bickel Group has grown from a one-man shop into an Orange County-based architectural force, completing hundreds of projects across California and the Western United States.

Over the last 35 years, Bickel Group has developed a reputation for creative design solutions, innovative problem solving, and finding effective ways to bring client’s dreams to life. Working with trusted partners, consultants, jurisdictions, and other stakeholders, Bickel Group prides itself in finding a path forward when one doesn’t seem possible, with emphasis put on teamwork at all project phases.

Recent recognition for Bickel Group’s work include a feature in Orange County Business Journal, being ranked as the 19th largest architectural firm in Orange County, and receiving an award from AIA Orange County.

Bickel Group attributes its success to a values-based culture that focuses on relationships, education, and adaptability. Having a diversified portfolio of project types, sizes, and scales has allowed Bickel Group to adjust through the years to stay ahead of industry curves, while allowing the team to leverage experience gained across all specialties.

Looking ahead, Bickel Group is excited about the current project pipeline - with projects of increasing complexity, historical significance, placemaking, and community-defining scopes all on the literal drawing board. Together with their valued clients and trusted design partners, Bickel Group is looking forward to the next 35 years.

Campo on 17th Coming to Tustin

Tustin, California - Bickel Group is proud to be a part of the project team bringing Campo on 17th to life in Tustin for Burnham-Ward Properties. Campo on 17th will bring the beloved Enderle Center shopping center into its next iteration, while maintaining the community-centric character the center has had for decades. A mixture of new construction and remodeling of existing structures, the project focuses on areas of discovery, a sense of place, and a central green for the project that can continue to be a community gathering place.

Working with Lifescapes International, Kimley Horn, RSM, and Dempsey Construction, among others, Bickel Group was tasked with finding design solutions for a site plan that are cohesive but efficient, that tie together the new and old structures, reconcile existing conditions and grading limitations, and lend flexibility for future tenants’ needs. Elevation-wise, a visual language was needed that would work with the existing buildings’ structural limitations, the proposed buildings’ aesthetics and expectations of design quality in the area, and that would give the local community the elevated but relaxed character that was desired.

Fully entitled, and now preparing for construction, Bickel Group is proud to be a part of this exciting custom commercial project in Orange County.

Bickel Group Honored at AIAOC Awards

Irvine, California - Bickel Group was proud to attend AIA Orange County’s annual Awards Gala and to be the recipient of a Merit Award in the Commercial-Built category for our work on The Groves in Whittier, highlighting the historic preservation efforts within the overall project scope.

On hand to accept the award were Jim Bickel, Kelly Johnson, Jessica Steiner, Kate Curtin, Chloe Watson, and Anthony Gonzalez. But the award is shared with the many collaborators and partners that helped bring The Groves to life, including ALMQUIST, RSM, SWA, RLA, Wright Engineers, Building Mechanical Systems, WSP, Tait, C3 Civil Engineering, ESA, Layton Construction, CM Corp, and Primus.

Information on the project and the award can be found here.

City Lights Coming to Life

Bakersfield, CA - Bickel Group’s City Lights project is well under construction with Moorefield Construction.  Located along the south side of State Hwy 178 in east Bakersfield at the former site of East Hills Mall, when completed, this 350,000 square foot outdoor retail destination will have twenty-two major retail tenants ranging from Sprouts to PetSmart.  There will also be nine pad buildings along Mall View Road, with tenants slated to include In-n-Out, Chick-fil-A, and various in-line retail and food tenants.  Completion is scheduled for Spring 2027.

Old River Ranch Thriving in Bakersfield

Bakersfield, CA - Two years after its grand opening, Old River Ranch in West Bakersfield is still setting trends in the area.  The mission modern design of this neighborhood shopping center has brought a fresh destination to the expanding western development edge of Bakersfield.  Five of the six buildings in the center were completed, fully leased, and opened in 2024.  The anchor tenant, a 55,000-square-foot Vallarta Supermarket, is scheduled to begin construction in early spring 2026, completing the project.

The center includes a mix of neighborhood orientated shops, both quick service and fast casual restaurants, and a communal dining/entertainment area sheltered from the elements by an architecturally integrated trellis structure giving local residents a unique setting to enjoy food, friends, and conversation.

Bickel Group is proud to continually help our clients create useful, beautiful, and location-sensitive spaces for all to enjoy and Old River Ranch is another chapter in that history.

Phase Two at The Canopy Underway in Irvine

Irvine, CA - Bickel Group is proud to announce its continued partnership with the City of Irvine and Almquist Development on Phase 2 of The Canopy at Great Park, a dynamic mixed-use destination within the heart of the Great Park.

This second phase of the commercial center will introduce three new thoughtfully designed buildings alongside community-engaging open space, further expanding The Canopy as a vibrant place to relax, gather, and connect. The outdoor environments have been carefully designed in collaboration with SWA Group, emphasizing placemaking, walkability, and seamless integration with the surrounding park and civic amenities.  Bickel Group has also collaborated with Gensler on a fourth building on site, rebuilding one of the original aircraft hangers to be used for additional restaurant and retail offerings.

Construction on Phase 2 is scheduled to begin this year, reinforcing the City of Irvine’s vision for the Great Park as a premier destination for innovation, recreation, and community life. The new buildings and open spaces are designed to complement the Phase 1 development which is currently under construction while elevating the overall experience for tenants, visitors, and residents alike.

As Phase 2 moves forward, Bickel Group remains focused on delivering architecture that balances design excellence with constructability, efficiency, and lasting value for both the public and private partners involved.

Mission Place Coming Soon to San Juan Capistrano

San Juan Capistrano, CA – Bickel Group is proud to announce Mission Place, a signature mixed-use destination that will bring new life, accessibility, and economic vibrancy to the heart of Downtown San Juan Capistrano. Designed to complement the city’s historic character while supporting its future growth, Mission Place will feature thoughtfully curated dining, wellness, community-oriented spaces, and a modern parking structure that will significantly improve downtown mobility.

Located steps from the iconic Mission San Juan Capistrano and the Los Rios Historic District, Mission Place is envisioned as a seamless extension of the city’s historic downtown, offering residents and visitors an inviting, walkable environment with high-quality amenities and improved access to local businesses.

The project marks another great collaboration between Bickel Group and Almquist Development who worked closely with city leadership, local business owners, and community stakeholders to ensure Mission Place Center reflects San Juan Capistrano’s unique identity while addressing longstanding infrastructure needs.  The team is excited to see construction moving forward and the vision coming to life with a completion set for 2027.

Auto Dealership Transformation Complete

Oxnard, CA - Bickel Group is proud to celebrate Oxnard Mazda opening in its new home in Spring 2025.  Previously a GMC dealership, this interior and exterior remodel now provides a full Mazda branded experience for customers. Working with ownership, the Mazda brand, local authorities, consultants, and contractors, Bickel Group is proud to have helped bring a new purpose and life to this property.

The Groves Retail Center in Whittier

Whittier, CA – After nearly a decade in the making, The Groves retail center in Whittier is open and delivering a vibrant, thoughtfully designed commercial destination to serve more than 750 new homes and the broader Whittier community.

This transformative development is the result of a long-standing partnership between Almquist Development and Bickel Group, who once again teamed up to create a dynamic mix of retail, dining, fitness, and essential services on the historic property.  Anchored by household names such as Stater Bros. Markets and EOS Fitness, The Groves also features a curated lineup of restaurants, boutiques, and service providers—intended to provide walkable convenience and community connection for residents and visitors alike.

Bickel Group played a vital role in realizing the vision, serving as lead design firm for several of the center’s key buildings. Their work included guiding the project through the City of Whittier’s entitlement process and producing construction drawings that respected the property’s unique heritage while embracing modern needs.

The Groves retail center stands as a key component of the broader revitalization of this historic land—formerly the site of the Fred C. Nelles Youth Correctional Facility—into a thriving mixed-use community that honors Whittier’s past while building toward its future.

Photos courtesy of Tony Wodarck Photography

Heritage Court in Whittier Revitalizes Historic Fred C. Nelles School Buildings into Vibrant Mixed-Use Spaces

Whittier, CA – The Heritage Court project in Whittier proudly celebrates the successful rehabilitation and adaptive reuse of historic buildings from the Fred C. Nelles School site. Bickel Group teamed up once again with Almquist Development and SWA Group for this transformative development which blends the preservation of early 20th-century architecture with modern functionality, offering new retail, restaurant, and community spaces.

Bickel Group’s focus on the thoughtful restoration of three key structures: the Administration Building, Superintendent’s Home, and Assistant Superintendent’s Home is the heart of the project. Each building underwent a meticulous rehabilitation process that preserved its unique architectural character while adapting the interiors for contemporary uses. These beautifully restored spaces will now house new bank, retail, and restaurant establishments, fostering economic growth and community engagement in Whittier.

In addition to the restored historic buildings, the project introduces a newly constructed Rodeo 72, the next location in the Rodeo Public Market group, a culinary hub designed to honor the site’s rich history. Inspired by the architectural elements of the original gymnasium building on the Fred C. Nelles campus, the food hall building seamlessly integrates classic design nods with modern construction techniques on the exterior with Architecture Design Collaborative designing the interior of Rodeo 72 to offer a dynamic dining experience, showcasing diverse local food vendors and creating a vibrant gathering place for residents and visitors alike.

Heritage Court represents a milestone in historic preservation and urban revitalization for Whittier. By breathing new life into these cherished landmarks, we not only celebrate the area’s history but also create spaces that serve the evolving needs of our community.  The Heritage Court project underscores a commitment to balancing preservation with progress, offering a model for the adaptive reuse of historic structures. By honoring the architectural legacy of the Fred C. Nelles School while creating spaces for businesses and residents to thrive, the project sets a new standard for community development.

Photos courtesy of Tony Wodarck Photography

Another Rodeo Joins the Collection

Whittier, CA - Bickel Group is thrilled for the opening of the next phase of buildings at The Groves which includes open plaza and site amenities as well as the building showcasing Rodeo 72 Food Hall.  The project honors the legacy of the historic Fred C. Nelles Youth Correctional Facility while introducing a vibrant, modern community gathering space that reflects the evolving character of Southern California.

As the architectural firm behind the shell structure, Bickel Group crafted an entry that pays homage to the original gymnasium from the early 20th century that was once located on the Nelles campus. Although the original structure could not be preserved, its architectural spirit lives on in the building's form and façade. As visitors move further into the site, the architecture transitions into a contemporary design language, characterized by a striking wood skeletal structure, natural wood siding, and a mid-century modern-inspired roofline. A dramatic aircraft hangar-style glass wall opens the entire building to the outdoors, inviting light, air, and energy into the space.  The building is rich with local artist creations including photographs and custom paintings throughout the inside as well as large graphic murals on the exterior of the building which embraces Whittier’s diversity and culture.

The exterior design further enhances the community feel with lush landscaping, ample outdoor seating, a playful game area, and a prominent, mature tree relocated from the original school grounds—an organic link to the site's rich past. 

Rodeo 72 marks the fourth installment of the popular Rodeo food hall series in Southern California. Bickel Group has worked closely with Almquist Development on the project, supporting the interior design coordination with Architecture Design Collaborative (ADC) and bringing to life another unique space that fosters connection, culture, and culinary exploration.

The Groves continues to transform the former state facility into a dynamic destination that celebrates Whittier’s heritage while providing a fresh vision for the future. With Rodeo 72, that vision now includes a welcoming, architecturally rich space designed for gathering, dining, and community.

Photos courtesy of Tony Wodarck Photography

Toes on the Nose at River Street

San Juan Capistrano, CA – Bickel Group is excited to celebrate their collaboration with iconic coastal lifestyle brand Toes on the Nose, helping bring their newest brick-and-mortar retail location to life in the heart of historic San Juan Capistrano. The store officially opened as part of the highly anticipated River Street Marketplace development - a vibrant, walkable destination blending local culture, heritage, and commerce.

Bickel Group worked closely with the Toes on the Nose team and Laura Brophy Interiors to ensure the space reflected the brand’s authentic surf-inspired identity while seamlessly integrating into the unique character of the River Street community.  The new store showcases a modern yet organic aesthetic, using warm natural materials, clean lines, and custom built-ins that invite customers into a relaxed, beach-inspired atmosphere. Every design detail—from lighting to layout—was thoughtfully curated to embody the adventurous spirit and laid-back luxury that Toes on the Nose represents.

River Street Marketplace, developed as a mixed-use destination, represents a bold vision for the future of downtown San Juan Capistrano, offering a curated blend of retail, dining, and public space. Bickel Group’s partnership in the project underscores their commitment to shaping innovative, community-centric environments that honor place and purpose.

 Photography courtesy of Tony Wodarck Photography

New Experiential Retail Hub Breaks Ground at Irvine’s Great Park

Irvine, California - Bickel Group is honored to play a leading role alongside, Almquist Development, C3 civil engineers, and SWA Group landscape architects in shaping a landmark that reflects both the innovative spirit of Irvine’s Great Park and the evolving nature of a flagship retail experience. The groundbreaking ceremony for The Canopy, held on April 24, marked the beginning of construction with WL Butler on what will become a vibrant hub for commerce, community, and culture.

More than a shopping destination, this new center is designed as an immersive environment—where retail, dining, and community engagement intersect. From open-air gathering spaces to carefully curated storefronts and sustainable, modern design features, every element of the project was imagined to foster connection and a sense of place.  As a firm, Bickel Group is passionate about crafting spaces that are not only functional and beautiful but that also tell a story and elevate the everyday experience. The Canopy at Great Park is a culmination of that philosophy—a design that serves both people and purpose.

This milestone reflects the collaborative efforts of our talented team alongside the City of Irvine, project stakeholders, and community partners. From concept through permitting, our integrated approach ensured the design was both creative and grounded in feasibility, meeting the complex regulatory and technical demands of a project of this scale.  The retail center is set to include a dynamic mix of tenants, pedestrian-friendly pathways, and landscape-forward design, aligning with the broader mission of Great Park as a forward-thinking destination for residents and visitors alike.

With shovels in the ground and a clear vision guiding the path forward, we are excited to see this bold concept take shape over the coming months.

Now Brewing in Ontario

Ontario, CA – Bickel Group is proud to announce the grand opening of Left Coast Brewing Co. Ontario, a dynamic new destination blending craft beer, a full-service smokehouse restaurant, a tasting room, and an in-house distillery. Located in Ontario, this is the third location by Left Coast which was established in 2004 and the first location in the Inland Empire.  The project reflects Bickel Group’s expertise in restaurant design and navigating complex regulatory requirements across multiple agencies.

Serving as the project architect, Bickel Group led the design and planning efforts, transforming the space into an inviting, open-concept environment that celebrates both craft and community. From design to final approvals, the firm coordinated with the local Building Department, Health Department, and California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) requirements to ensure seamless integration of the brewery, kitchen, tasting, and distilling functions — all within a single cohesive venue.

The design features expansive glass showcasing the brewing and distilling efforts while glass, garage-style doors open between the group room and bar area, as well as between the interior and the outdoor patio, creating a fluid connection between the spaces. The patio itself offers year-round comfort with built-in heaters and welcoming fire pits, enhancing the overall guest experience.

Honoring Hobie's Legacy in San Juan Capistrano

San Juan Capistrano, CA - Bickel Group was proud to join the team to collaborate with Hobie Surf Shop on the brand’s newest brick-and-mortar location—marking an exciting new chapter for a company that has been a mainstay of Orange County surf culture for more than 70 years.

Bickel Group’s design of the building includes slot windows, a vaulted entry with surfboard display and a signature architectural feature—a series of large, curved glulam (glued-laminated timber) beams that sweep through the Hobie retail space. These structural elements extend the full height of the space, showcasing a blend of craftsmanship and coastal character. The beams and rest of the structure are left visible within the store, giving the space a rustic aesthetic that honors Hobie’s roots while creating a fresh and inviting retail experience. 

Founded in Dana Point in 1954, Hobie has long stood as a symbol of Southern California’s surf heritage, and this fourth location continues that legacy with a space that’s both timeless and forward-thinking. As Architect of Record, Bickel Group worked with the Hobie team to shepherd the project through construction detailing and permitting, ultimately helping to bring the vision of the new store to life.

Taking It Easy at Capo Leisure House

San Juan Capistrano, CA - After only a short time, Capo Leisure House has proven to be a standout destination combining craft beer, thoughtful design, and coastal country charm in the Los Rios District for locals and visitors alike.  The menu and events are certainly not to miss, and Bickel Group is proud of their role in the design, construction detailing, and permitting of the newly completed environment which required coordination and approvals with many city and county agencies as well addressing the appropriate historical context of the site.

At the core, the structure is a pre-engineered metal building, which Bickel Group creatively transformed to reflect the character and relaxed sophistication of its surroundings. The design incorporates a large, covered patio and expansive glass bi-fold doors, seamlessly blending the indoor tasting room with the outdoor experience—blurring the lines between brewery and backyard.  A custom fire pit, specialty landscape and gravel patio surface were used to soften the exterior patio area.

Inside, Capo Leisure House features a fully operational brewery helmed by the award-winning team from Bearded Tang Brewery in Stanton, known for their inventive, high-quality craft beers. The brewery setup was carefully integrated into the design, offering both operational efficiency and visual transparency for guests.

Here Studios took the lead on interior finishes, and through the team collaboration, the space is infused with coastal country vibes that pay homage to the unique charm and heritage of San Juan Capistrano. Interior touches include a library nook, custom lighting features, and architectural nods to local history—creating a space that feels as thoughtful and inviting as the beers on tap and the crafted cocktails.

Photography courtesy of Tony Wodarck Photography

Latest Rodeo Opens at River Street Marketplace

San Juan Capistrano, CA – Bickel Group teamed up with The Joy X and See Design Studios on Rodeo River Street, a bold new addition to the Rodeo Public Market brand which includes Rodeo 39 in Stanton, Rodeo X in Ontario, and coming soon, Rodeo 73 in Whittier.  Rodeo River Street is a dynamic new addition that is home to ten unique food vendors under one roof.

Serving up more than just incredible menus, this latest project celebrates diversity through design, with each vendor space crafted to reflect its own bold personality and culinary story. Bickel Group led the team, bringing a cohesive vision to the overall building while allowing room for ten distinctly designed environments to shine inside for an immersive and high energy experience.

Rooted in the Los Rios District’s historical heritage, the building’s exterior architecture pays homage to the past with a modern barn-inspired silhouette, rustic materials, and large open-air gathering spaces that feel welcoming and communal. Inside, the tone shifts to something more contemporary and unexpected—featuring neon signage, custom murals, and specialty lighting that give the space its distinctive urban flair.

Bickel Group worked closely with The Joy X and See Design Studios to detail the ten immersive environments within the market, with each vendor boasting its own identity through curated materials, custom lighting, and vibrant, Instagram-worthy design moments. The result is a food hall experience unlike any other—visually stimulating, culturally diverse, and deeply rooted in local storytelling.

Rodeo River Street is open and already bringing in the community with scheduled events and social activities proving it is not just a place to eat, but a place to explore, connect, and be inspired.

La Vaquera Open at River Street Marketplace

San Juan Capistrano, CA - Bickel Group is proud to announce its collaboration with renowned hospitality leaders Acme Hospitality and interior designer Doug Washington Design on La Vaquera, a vibrant restaurant located at the new River Street Marketplace.

La Vaquera celebrates the sun-kissed spirit of California through a bright and welcoming design which includes an indoor/outdoor bar, walls of operable windows, vaulted entry, custom light fixtures, and huge outdoor patio seating area. The restaurant’s interiors are an elegant fusion of clean modern lines and rustic warmth, thoughtfully curated to complement the farm-forward cuisine crafted by Acme Hospitality. The design honors the historic Los Rios district’s agricultural roots while embracing a fresh, contemporary sensibility.

Bickel Group worked to bring this vision to life with the construction detailing and coordination of many stakeholders including the detailing, permitting and installation of a custom wood-fire grill with 9 feet of grill space which is the heart of the kitchen, the menu, and can be viewed from the dining room.  Working with Doug Washington and Acme Hospitality allowed the team to shape an experience that feels elevated yet approachable, stylish yet soulful. 

La Vaquera is now open and part of the list of standout destinations at River Street Marketplace, a new hub for food, design, and community in south Orange County.

Photography by Wonho Photography

Starbucks Under Construction in San Bernardino

San Bernardino, CA - Bickel Group is excited to move into the construction administration phase of a new Starbucks drive thru within an existing shopping center in San Barnardino that broke ground in February.  This new location is designed to meet the increasing demand for convenient coffee service for the local community while incorporating modern, efficient design principles that enhance the customer experience.  The drive-thru layout is optimized for smooth traffic flow, pedestrian access, and sustainability, aligning with the developer’s commitment to responsible development.

 Bickel Group worked closely with local agencies to navigate the permitting process and ensure the project met all regulatory requirements while maintaining the company's high design and drawing standards.

 Bickel Group is honored to collaborate with Fountainhead Development and Starbucks on this exciting project, delivering an architectural design that supports both operational efficiency and a welcoming atmosphere, while remaining focused on creating a space that seamlessly integrates brand vision with local community needs.

Bringing Open Space and Community to Ontario

Ontario, CA - The Grand Park is coming to life at the heart of Ontario Ranch, and it’s set to become a new focal point for family fun, fitness, and nature within the community. Spanning 340 acres over a stunning 3.7-mile stretch, this transformative park will serve as the region’s new epicenter for outdoor recreation, bringing abundant green space and exciting new amenities to Ontario, including a 5,000-seat amphitheater. Leading the design and planning of Ontario Grand Park is SWA Group, with Bickel Group providing critical architectural support to bring this vision to life.

Phase I of the project, covering 130 acres, kicked off with grading in October 2024, with a grand opening planned for November 2027.

Bickel Group is proud to be part of this incredible project, contributing our architectural expertise. Along with the amphitheater, we’re working on several key buildings to support the park’s operations, including a community hall barn, operational staff offices, and other essential facilities to ensure the park is successful for years to come.

Stay tuned for more updates as this groundbreaking project unfolds!