Second Story and Beyond
Second Story & Beyond: Transforming a Library into an Interactive Children's Museum
Client: City of Rancho Cucamonga I Design: CambridgeSeven I Fabricator: Xibitz I AV: Electrosonic & RLMG I Subcontractor: Boss Display
The Challenge
In an era where digital screens often dominate children’s attention, the City of Rancho Cucamonga, California, embarked on a daring journey to redefine the traditional library experience. Partnering with design experts CambridgeSeven and fabrication specialists Xibitz, the Rancho Cucamonga Public Library has unveiled a groundbreaking transformation of its second floor — now home to far more than books.
The aptly named Second Story and Beyond exhibition is an interactive wonderland that combines learning, sensory development, movement, and creativity. With a strong emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), the new library floor is designed to nurture curiosity and foster a love for learning through carefully curated hands-on experiences.
The Result
This ambitious project was brought to life through the collaborative efforts of several key players:
- CambridgeSeven: Provided the visionary experience design
- Xibitz: Head of fabrication and overall project management
- Boss Display: Created the incredible water table and overhead climber
- Electrosonic: Implemented state-of-the-art AV hardware and media
- RLMG: Provided high quality media content
- Taylor Studios and Moss: Contributed specialized expertise to various elements
One of the most innovative aspects of this project is the exhibit’s adaptability. The entire floor can be updated with new graphic packages that run through every exhibit, ensuring that the space remains fresh and engaging for years to come. This forward-thinking approach allows the library staff to continually evolve the experience, keeping pace with educational trends and community needs.
The Rancho Cucamonga Public Library’s transformation illustrates how traditional institutions can evolve to meet the changing needs of their communities. By creating a space that encourages active learning, sensory exploration, and creative play, the library has positioned itself as an essential hub for childhood development and family engagement.
Want to see more? Check out our other Museum projects.
Red Hat
Innovation Meets Fabrication at Red Hat's Boston Office
Client: Red Hat I Design: Downstream I Fabricator: Xibitz
The Challenge
Red Hat’s Boston office brings together their Executive Briefing Center, Open Innovation Labs, and Engineering community under one roof. The environment needed to emphasize collaboration and inspiration, not only for the Red Hat internal team, but for their visiting clients and partners as well.
Connecting the executive space with the main floor is a fantastic 17-foot video wall. We developed a system that both supported the waterfall screens and enabled easy maintenance. The steel frames were built using a drawer-slide method, allowing each monitor to slide out from the wall. This seemingly-simple solution required extreme precision — the final result had to look like one continuous, solid piece.
The Result
With numerous media interactives throughout the space, exacting quality was demanded to ensure an immersive, fluid experience. Guided by Downstream’s design vision, we successfully implemented custom graphics, displays, and a suite of technological solutions.
The Executive Briefing Center is a perfect example: wrapped in wall-to-wall touchscreen technology, it’s a testament of Red Hat’s own software solutions, while simultaneously fostering further collaboration and ideation.
From the responsive reception wall to the hidden bar, surprising and delightful moments bring energy and excitement to the space. Every addition contributes to a sense of wonder and inspiration — the perfect atmosphere for one of the world’s largest and most innovative tech companies.
Want to see more? Check out our other Corporate projects.
Local 4
Lights, Camera, Action: Local 4's Studio Transformation
Client: Local 4 I Design: Wright Sets I Fabricator: Xibitz
The Challenge
This was no superficial upgrade. Local 4 wanted a completely new set, replacing their outdated fixtures and green screens with sophisticated LED technology and a spacious, modern design.
The entire set is supported by a robust frame produced in our workshop, designed to support the massive screens while allowing for passage behind the electronics for easy maintenance.
Surprisingly, the SEG system for this project is one of the standout elements. A network of LED’s provides color behind the grey SEG’s. Sophisticated mock-ups were required to achieve the precise color density to ensure a realistic look.
The Result
This redesign has transformed the news studio from top to bottom. With new sets for news, sports, and the weather, the space is more energizing, inspiring, and immersive.
We are tremendously grateful to the Local 4 team for their trust and support throughout the project. It was a pleasure collaborating with Michael Wright and our partners at ReveLux to bring this design to life.
Want to see more? Check out our other Corporate projects.
Duke Tennis
Game, Set, Match: Transforming Duke’s Tennis Center
Client: Duke Athletics I Design: ZEBRADOG I Fabricator: Xibitz
The Challenge
We teamed up with the creative masterminds at ZEBRADOG to give the Sheffield Indoor Tennis Center a major redesign. Our mission was to turn the facility into a place that not only better accommodates the needs of the staff and the men’s and women’s teams, but also into a place of pride for the esteemed program.
As the fabrication partner, we were responsible for carrying out that bold vision. From the signature blue tennis ball wall that greets guests at the entrance to the thoughtfully-designed team lounge, the details in this space are breathtaking.
The Result
Tennis rackets and other materials combine with more traditional acrylic, metal, and wood to create an interior that is truly unique and intentional. Every element pays homage to the sport and the program: the tennis-ball inspired locker room light fixtures, the larger-than-life Hellraiser face, the mirrored Blue Devils wall.
It was a pleasure working with our partners at ZEBRADOG on this project, and of course we are tremendously grateful to the staff at Duke Athletics for all their hard work and support.
This redesign transformed the facility from top to bottom. The new space is a celebration of Duke University and the tennis program that is modern, energized, and inspired.
Want to see more? Check out our other Athletics projects.
Howard University
A Fresh Look For Howard University's Practice Facility
Client: Howard University I Design: ZEBRADOG I Architect: The Beck Group I Fabricator: Xibitz
Old Gym, New Style
ZEBRADOG led the charge on this bold redesign of Howard University’s 1963 practice facility. Affectionately known as The Burr, this gym is now home to Howard’s DI basketball and volleyball teams. A refresh was sorely needed. Not just to update the old building, but also to celebrate the past and current achievements of these programs.
A Little Steam Goes a Long Way
Statement graphics throughout the building celebrate Howard’s spirit in a modern style. Xibitz produced and installed window treatments, vinyl lettering, banners, wall panels, and more.
The star of the show is the 20-foot-tall Bison head that blows real steam from its nostrils when activated. Our team laid the complex statement piece seamlessly to create the perfect photo-op moment for prospective Bison athletes.
The final result is a celebration of Howard’s legacy and proof of their commitment to their students. It was an honor to contribute on this renovation, and we hope that the new look inspires the next generation of Bison athletes!
#BleedBlue #GoBison
Want to see more? Check out our other Athletics projects.
Angel’s Envy Bourbon Club
A Floating Cardinal for University of Louisville Angel’s Envy Bourbon Club
The University of Louisville had two asks. The first: to create a statement piece for the Schnellenberger Football Complex entrance. And the second: redesign the stadium’s Angels’ Envy Bourbon Club to provide a premium experience for guests.
Xibitz crafted the club’s new fantastic centerpiece: a gigantic metal cardinal that hangs elegantly from the ceiling. The welded-aluminum sculpture hammers home the bond between the Club and the Louisville Cardinals.
Xibitz also constructed the 8-foot long metal and copper bands floating around the cardinal, an homage to the barrel staves used to store whiskey and bourbon.
Michigan State Football
Lansing, Michigan
Unveiling the New Michigan State Tom Izzo Football Building
Xibitz partnered with Jack Porter to revamp the Tom Izzo Football Building for the Michigan State Spartans. A program with six national championships needs an awe-inspiring transformation, and Jack Porter delivered. Using Jack Porter’s designs, Xibitz fabricated and installed new display cases, interactive pieces, and more.
A Social Hub
One of the most notable areas is the Nike equipment room. The finished product includes meticulously-crafted custom floating shelves to house Nike gear available for the players use along with a modern lounge space. An interactive LED display invites visitors to personalize their experience by customizing a Spartan jersey. As visitors approach what seems to be a black screen, a motion-activated sensor reveals transparent glass, showcasing MSU’s three distinct jerseys while an LED array highlights the visitor’s personalized selection, immersing them in the team’s identity.
Celebrating Program Achievements
In the corridor leading to the Nike equipment room, our team installed high gloss panels that showcase the players’ accomplishments, emphasizing the rich history and achievements of Spartan football. We also crafted bespoke awards for the National Award Winners Hallway to honor individual achievements. This addition reinforces the culture of excellence within the team.
Upon entering the main foyer, visitors are greeted by a striking LED array mounted on a faceted wall, accompanied by four National Championship awards. These awards, an ingenious and unique design by Jack Porter, serve as a powerful testament to the team’s success.
Our collaboration with Jack Porter and our meticulous attention to detail have transformed the football facility into a space that reflects the legacy of Spartan football—and also fosters a profound sense of pride and connection for players and visitors alike.
Mark and Paula Hurd Welcome Center
Baylor University | Waco, TX
Xibitz worked closely with Populous, RLMG, and Electrosonic to bring the concepts for four interactive pillars to life in the Mark and Paula Hurd Welcome Center grand hall. These 90’ towers are both tapered and tilted featuring programmable lighting. The pillars are named for the theme in which guests discover not only Baylor’s story but also through a personalized experience, considering their own future ahead.
Upon entering the space guests experience the Reflect Pillar. Stepping inside this infinity, mirrored space with a fully projected ceiling, visitors are encouraged to envision their journey and future at Baylor. Next is the Connect Pillar with a 55’x8’ full HD LED array and directional sound system. A
motion detector starts a countdown and an immersive experience begins as guests stand inside the 360-degree display. The show is a connective ride through the years showcasing key historical events, and linking the visitor with the university and its traditions. Following that is the Aspire Pillar. This is a one-of-a-kind “ribbon” LED array that has an interactive element, where registered visitors can use the Baylor mobile app to scan into the AV experience. This allows the visitor to personalize the experience and see their ambitions running up this pillar, begging to ask the question of how this visitor is Inspired by their personal goals or past Baylor experience. Last is the Amplify Pillar. This has a 7’ hemisphere LED element that hangs overhead representing the globe. Within this pillar, the visitor can watch past alumni who have made significant impacts on the world. When leaving this space guests are motivated and encouraged to make a similar, positive impact on the world like other Baylor alumni.
Check out this video walk-through of the space!
Celebrating 35 Years of Business!
Xibitz, Inc. is proud to announce the celebration of its 35-year anniversary. Since its inception in 1988, Xibitz has produced thousands of projects worldwide and has been committed to quality and innovation, remaining at the forefront of experiential design fabrication.
Founded by Bob Siebelink, Lloyd Siebelink, and Doug Bosma, Xibitz started with a focus on trade shows and temporary exhibits. The operation outgrew the original facility and moved into its current home on Gezon Parkway in Wyoming. This move allowed Xibitz growth to perform permanent exhibits and branded-design work with some of the largest athletic, healthcare, higher education, and museums in the world. The company was acquired by Ben Metzger and Jeremy Miller in 2015.
“We are extremely grateful to our dedicated employees, loyal customers, and countless partners who have been integral in Xibitz success over the past 35 years,” said Ben Metzger, Principal at Xibitz. “This anniversary marks not only the years of hard work and determination of our team but also the enormous potential that lies ahead as we continue to produce environments that capture the hearts and minds of those who experience them.”
As previously mentioned, Xibitz has created thousands of exhibits over the years and developed the Nostaboard, a split-flap display product. With a commitment to innovation, the Nostaboard was originally conceived for the Chicago Cubs headquarters across from Wrigley Field. After installation, it received interest from professional sports teams to high-end fashion shows in Paris. Blending new technology with nostalgia for old train station displays, it captivates audiences by revealing images and creating an incredible experience for the viewer.
“When Xibitz began, never in our wildest dreams did we imagine we’d be where we are today,” said Doug Bosma, Founder. “It’s been the joy of a lifetime to know that in 35 years, we have made a mark on the most recognized brands, and more importantly, that our team in West Michigan is representing our heart and grit through craftsmanship, and showcasing that around the world.”
The most notable projects in Michigan include the Sloan Museum of Discovery (2023), the University of Michigan Natural History Museum (2019), and the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum (2015). The largest project completed to date is the Perlan Museum in Reykjavík, Iceland (2017-2018), and the furthest project was completed for the Sydney Swans, in Australia (2023).
