Client: Partnership for the Advancement of New Americans (PANA) 

RNT is working with the Partnership for the Advancement of New Americans to design a new multi-use cultural hub in the City Heights neighborhood of San Diego that will serve our immigrant and refugee community members. 

The idea for the Refugee and Immigrant Cultural Hub came about after the 2020 census revealed a large population of San Diego was comprised of African, Arab, Middle Eastern, Muslim, and South Asian communities – communities that were underrepresented in previous census reports. The RICH is intended to provide a place of security, resources, and empowerment for these underserved populations. It will not only serve first generation immigrant and refugee families but will be equally important for second and third generation members who are natural born citizens of the United States but may face misrepresentation and cultural biases.  

Our design was created over the course of a year-long visioning process that greatly involved the community to better understand their challenges, needs, and aspirations. This mixed-use development will include a global marketplace, a community center and a health and wellness center at ground level with upper floors dedicated to housing, including at least 150 designated affordable units. The entire building mass will encapsulate and open out to Chollas Park.