Santa Ana Arts Collective

Mid-Century Office Building Restored as Affordable Family Housing with a Preference for Artists

The first project redeveloped under Santa Ana’s new adaptive reuse ordinance, Santa Ana Arts Collective (SAAC) repurposed a 1965 international style office building into 100% affordable, studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments. The project also adds 10 new affordable two- and three-bedroom townhomes. Walkable to Santa Ana’s arts institutions, the redevelopment at 1666 N. Main Street includes an art gallery and other arts-focused amenities for both residents and the public.

The California Strategic Growth Council recognized SAAC for minimizing greenhouse gas emissions in housing production, with an Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities (AHSC) capital award for development of the project in 2016.

In addition to the housing, the AHSC funds were used to convert Bush Street, one block from the project site, into a bike- and pedestrian-enhanced thoroughfare, providing a safer and more sustainable route to the Santa Ana Civic Center. The substantial housing and transportation investments make it easier and more affordable for both the residents and surrounding community to access jobs and services critical to building healthy and connected neighborhoods.

Their mission is to inspire and empower the next generation of digital visionaries through free and accessible youth media classes, workshops, screenings, workforce development, networking opportunities, cultural agility, access to technology, and creating pathways to 21st century jobs. The organization operates out of SAAC, and their onsite programming is available to both residents of the building and the broader community.