St. Joe Lofts

Landis completed the multi-unit, historic renovation of St. Joe Lofts in 2010. The model sustainable artist development was the first and remained the only residential artist community in New Orleans' Arts District. Due to unavoidable delays in owner financing, Landis received a compressed nine-month schedule for completion. Through a strong relationship with the developer and successful implementation of design-assist, beginning with a feasibility study that carried through construction, Landis was able to overcome significant challenges. The scope of work included the renovation of two historic buildings and the new construction of a three-story building. Once a shipping supply operation, the historic building was repurposed to accommodate 37 loft units, and the new building provides 24 units. These 61 units, along with a community center and off-street parking, serve as low-income housing for artists in the community. The project was designed to meet the requirements of the State and Federal Historic Preservation Offices, the Historic District Landmark Commission (HDLC), the Louisiana Housing Finance Authority (LHFA), and the tax credits help offset much of the $9.8 million cost of the project that Landis and project partners helped the client receive. St. Joe Lofts offers artists residency coupled with programming to promote success: affordable housing, first-class exhibition and event space, and opportunities for residents and affiliates alike to network, showcase, and foster creative growth.