Nonprofit developer Artspace Projects of Minneapolis has partnered with the Windgate Foundation to build a $36 million mixed-use space for artists on Little Rock's east side.
The Artspace Windgate Campus is envisioned as a 94,000-SF, four-story building with 60 residential units for artists and their families, along with studios, gallery and event space, and a large outdoor courtyard. Plans also call for 16,000 SF of commercial space for local arts and cultural organizations.
Construction at 1102 East Eighth St. is expected to begin next summer and be completed in fall 2024, Artspace said in a news release.
Tio Aiken, a spokeswoman for Artspace, said AMR Architects Inc. of Little Rock is desiging the project. She did not know whether a general contractor had been chosen.
Artspace and Windgate have been exploring such a project since 2018, when they launched feasibility study on the matter. The study determined the development could be a "huge boon in providing hope and a sense of progress that benefits residents from all walks of life."
"Providing the creative community in central Arkansas with a place to gather, live, and work is essential to the growth of our culture and economy," Robyn Horn, Windgate board chair, said in the release. "Our belief in this project and our confidence in Artspace is what propelled Windgate Foundation to initiate it. The response from artists in the area was so enthusiastic. We knew it would be a welcomed addition to Little Rock."
All 60 units of at the building will be affordably priced for residents earning between 30% and 60% of the area's median income.
"This innovative project will bring not only bring additional affordable housing to this area but serve as a neighborhood hub," Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott Jr. said. "With its proximity to the Clinton Presidential Center, Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, and the future home of the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra, it will be an anchor for Little Rock’s expanding arts and culture scene."
Artspace has projects in operation or development in more than 20 states. In all, the projects represent nearly 2,000 live/work units and millions of square feet of non-residential community and commercial space.
