ACAC Preserves African Heritage A Rainier Valley Community Campaign

The African Cultural Arts Center (ACAC) will serve as a permanent home for ADEFUA and a dynamic hub for culture and arts in the heart of the Rainier Valley. This facility will be a cornerstone for locally driven community development, cultural preservation, economic empowerment, and housing stabilization.

Project Description

The ACAC will be a state-of-the-art cultural facility dedicated to African history, dance, music, and the arts, offering:

Art Gallery & Exhibit Spaces showcasing African and African American art and cultural artifacts.
Indoor & Outdoor Performance Spaces for dance, music, and storytelling.
Classrooms & Workshop Studios for cultural education, drumming, and dance.
Artist Residency & Studio Spaces to nurture creative expression.
Commercial Kitchen & Café for culinary experiences and community gatherings.
ADEFUA Administrative Offices to coordinate cultural programs and events.

Project Background

ACAC’s Role in Integrating Culture, Art, Economic Stability and Anchoring Affordable Housing Efforts

The ACAC is located on a site with a deep 40-year legacy in the community and is positioned at the heart of the Rainier Valley Creative District, which unites five thriving neighborhoods: Columbia City, Hillman City, Brighton, Dunlap, and Rainier. The Rainier Valley Creative District (CD) is Seattle’s first state-designated Creative District, established in 2018. This designation provides communities with tools and resources to strengthen economic development, increase tourism, preserve cultural diversity, and support affordable housing initiatives.

Feasibility Summary

Fivedot Architects has worked closely with ADEFUA to design a facility that meets community needs while adhering to zoning and code requirements. After an extensive feasibility study and stakeholder engagement, it was determined that the best course of action is to construct a new facility on the site, replacing the existing structure.