Miami's Bakehouse Art Complex to Add 250 Affordable Artist Housing Units

Founded in 1985 by a group of artists evicted from Coconut Grove studios, the Bakehouse Art Complex in Miami's Wynwood neighborhood is expanding its mission. Using a government grant, the artists purchased a 1920s Art Deco former industrial bakery spanning over 3,000 square meters on nearly a hectare of land. Today, the complex houses 60 artist studios, two galleries, a classroom, print and photography labs, and areas for ceramics, welding, and woodworking. Now, over three decades later, Bakehouse plans to build 250 affordable housing units for artists on its campus, aiming to "requalify the site as a campus embedded in the community," according to Bakehouse attorney Wesley Hevia of Akerman LLP. The need arises from Wynwood's rapid real estate development, surrounded by the Miami Design District to the north, Wynwood Arts District to the south, Midtown to the east, and the emerging Allapattah neighborhood to the west. Studio applicants are evaluated based on need and merit, with one-year leases renewable upon reapplication. The expansion seeks to protect artists from future real estate booms by ensuring accessible spaces and housing.