Del Mar City Hall

Del Mar, CA

The Del Mar Civic Center is a 1.5-acre civic campus designed to reflect the city’s coastal setting and small-town character. The 9,000-square-foot City Hall includes council chambers, administrative offices, and public gathering spaces, all connected by an open-air breezeway that invites transparency and community engagement.

While at The Miller Hull Partnership, Kelley Ross led the interior finish package for the project, collaborating with the client to develop a palette inspired by the surrounding natural environment. The interiors aim to be subtle and timeless, allowing the materials—wood, concrete, and natural textures—to speak for themselves. Kelley also contributed to the detailing of key public-facing elements, including a custom wood-slat reception desk that anchors the main entry.

With its low-profile rooflines, native landscaping, and use of natural materials, the Civic Center reinforces Del Mar’s connection to place while providing a welcoming and enduring public space.

Role: Team Member, Interiors Lead while at Miller Hull Partnership

Photo Credit: Chipper Hatter

Awards:

• WoodWorks Wood Design Awards 2019 Wood in Government Buildings

• AIA San Diego Chapter 2018 Merit Award

• San Diego Architecture Foundation 2018 Orchid Award for Architecture