SHADETREE LIVE-WORK UPGRADE

Shadetree has been a vibrant and diverse community of artists, makers, performers and craftspeople since its establishment in 1979 within a set of disused industrial buildings along Oakland’s Inner Harbor.

Over the years, the community grew and its residents customized their spaces to fit their lifestyles, creative practices, and maker enterprises.

Following the deadly Ghost Ship warehouse fire, Oakland began more strictly enforcing building code requirements on D.I.Y. and live/work spaces. Shadetree, with its many noncomplying conditions, was under threat of closure if it didn’t make expensive upgrades.

Design Draw Build has been working with the community, Safer DIY Spaces and Black Creek Builders to upgrade life safety, fire safety, and sustainability measures of the community without undermining its affordability or unique flavor.