ELS has just completed a community workshop series that will guide our upgrades to the César Chávez Community Center, built in 1928 on the city’s East Side.

Originally a junior high school, the complex was designed in the Spanish Colonial Revival style by prominent Los Angeles architect John C. Austin. Today, the facility’s original classrooms are now used for instruction in music, dance, and the visual and performing arts, along with offices for local non-profits and space for community meetings.

We coordinated closely with stakeholders to develop concepts that support the public and improve how the site is used. These include modernizing the theater and community room, reversing prior non-historic modifications, and replacing portions of the historic exterior. The renovation will upgrade the overall experience and enable the city to introduce exciting new programming and opportunities for generating revenue.

Thanks to the many community members and stakeholders who were so generous with their time in helping to shape the work ahead!

(And check out our prior project in Riverside: the historic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa.)