As locals, Joe and Heidi Stance have always appreciated Riverside. The city is well-known for its intricately designed historic buildings that reflect the city’s rich past. The Stances now have the opportunity to take part in preserving that history with their latest property: Downtown Riverside’s Life Arts Center.
Iconic Structure Designed By Mission Inn Architect
The Life Arts Center has a long history of diverse uses and has become a central part of the Riverside community. Mission Inn architect, Arthur Benton, began plans in 1909 for an iconic Italian Renaissance Revival building that would house the local YMCA chapter. The architectural design veered away from the other, more common styles of the region. This makes the Life Arts Center stand out as a unique and unforgettable beauty.
In the 1970s the building was purchased by its current owner. The location served as a center for religious gatherings for years, but eventually housed an art supply company. From then on the building became known as a hub for the arts. Ultimately this new community of artists revived the building, and led to its current name.
The City of Art and Innovation
Not only is Riverside known for its historic buildings, but it has also long been a destination city hailed for its prime location. Downtown Riverside itself is known as the “cultural and artistic epicenter of the region,” making it a popular and prominent gathering place. Riverside County is one of the largest counties in the state and is best known for being a city of art and innovation.
The Life Arts Center is one way that the Stances hope to preserve the city’s rich history and encourage innovation. As a Riverside landmark, the center will undoubtedly have a bright future. As for what exactly that future is? The possibilities are endless!
For years the Life Arts Center has been a hub for the community serving as a banquet hall as well as a collection of art studios. Many memories were made in the historic commercial building. The upstairs rooms could allow for the LAC to be a future office space. Maybe the banquet halls will be preserved to make room for many more weddings and special events in the future. The future owners of the LAC could even dig into the building’s historic roots and revive its use as a communal art space and gallery.
Location, Location, Location
The building is conveniently located next to bars, famous art murals, and historic churches. Nearby restaurants, shops, and the famous Mission Inn makes the location of the Life Arts Center that much more ideal. During the summers, the LAC is also the beginning attraction during Riverside’s infamous monthly Arts Walks. These exciting events allow entrepreneurs and artisans to sell their products and sport their work. Locals from all over the Inland Empire enjoy gathering at these events and touring the Life Arts Center to learn more about the historic building’s influence on Riverside’s culture.
Needless to say, The Life Arts Center is full of potential. The city’s diverse demographics and continual growth presents numerous opportunities for the LAC. No matter its future, the people of Riverside will always look to the building’s beautiful brick structure with fondness and be inspired by its vibrant past.
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Interested in this great opportunity? Learn More or Connect with the team preserving history and encouraging innovation. Call Joe Stance today at (909) 772-1212 to learn more about more exciting opportunities.