Hawthorne Lofts is part of the Salem Schools project, which also includes the Residences at St. James. Salem Schools involves the extensive renovation of two historic former schools into modern, energy-efficient affordable housing. At this location, 29 units will be built with a preference for artists. Additionally, the former auditorium will be transformed into approximately 5,000 square feet of workspace for artists. During the planning process, the Design Team led a comprehensive community engagement effort with over 75 local artists from the North Shore and El Punto to understand their needs, as well as the region’s needs, for studio and performance space. This process informed the ultimate design of the co-working space for artists. The project was financed using 9% State and Federal LIHTC.