Austin KlarVanguard Properties · Lawyer Turned Real Estate Agent

See the Amazing New Plans for This Historic Art School!

Name: See the Amazing New Plans for This Historic Art School!
Uploaded: 2025-07-09T00:00:37+00:00
Duration: 52 s
Channel: Austin Klar
Description: Austin Klar reports that the shuttered San Francisco Art Institute (SFAI) campus has been purchased out of bankruptcy by a nonprofit backed by…

9 Jul 2025 · 1 min

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Austin Klar reports that the shuttered San Francisco Art Institute (SFAI) campus has been purchased out of bankruptcy by a nonprofit backed by billionaire philanthropist Laurene Powell Jobs for $23 million. The new owners have filed redevelopment plans to transform the historic landmark into the California Academy of Studio Arts, a shared‑studio facility offering workshops and mentorship rather than a traditional academic program. The project includes a $50 million restoration of the iconic Diego Rivera mural and preservation of the historic buildings. Jensen Architects, Laplace, and Page & Turnbull are leading the design, with renderings showing a striking new look. Construction is slated to begin in September and will span several years. Klar invites viewer comments and promotes his Bay Area real‑estate coverage.

Chapters

We finally know the fate of the shuttered San Francisco Art Institute campus. After a nonprofit backed by billionaire philanthropist Laurene Powell Jobs purchased the building out of bankruptcy for $23 million a couple of years ago, it wasn't exactly clear on what the future was for the historic landmark. But we finally got an update with new renderings and they look incredible. Campus plans to reopen and it'll be called the California Academy of Studio Arts. Instead of a traditional school, it'll be more of a shared studio space with workshops and mentorship programs. The nonprofit helming the renovation filed plans earlier this year to restore the historic building, including the $50 million Diego Rivera mural at the campus. Jensen Architects, Laplace, and Page and Turnbull are helming the project, so you know it's in very good hands. This is such an iconic group of buildings, and I can't wait to see it redone. Construction is expected to start in September, and it's going to take several years. Let me know what you think in the comments, and follow me for more Bay Area real estate.