Capitol Hill Arts Center on the move, wants to buy its own space

After five years at its original location, the Capitol Hill Arts Center (CHAC) will move by June 30, when its present lease ends.

CHAC did not exercise an option to renew its lease for its site at 1621 12th Ave., where the for-profit cultural organization has been presenting an array of events such as plays, cabaret shows, all-ages raves, plus subletting spaces to other tenants.

Matthew Kwatinetz, CHAC's director, said he offered to buy the building from owner Elizabeth Linke. She confirmed that she did not want to sell it.

"We're now definitely looking to buy our own space. We have the backers and money to purchase a building," said Kwatinetz, who has been actively involved in the communitywide effort to develop more arts facilities in Seattle's urban core, an effort with support from the City Council.

According to Kwatinetz, CHAC has in five years presented "more than 4,000 shows of every variety" in its current location.

"Our mission has definitely been achieved here," he said, "and now we'd like to broaden and do more in our own place. Of course, we'd really like to stay on Capitol Hill."

Linke said the popular restaurant Crave, also housed in the building, will remain. She is looking for another tenant, preferably an arts organization, to take over the main lease, and is currently "in discussions" with Velocity Dance Center. That nonprofit dance studio is looking to relocate from the Odd Fellows Hall, an East Pine Street building on Capitol Hill under new ownership. Rents there are rising for arts tenants.

Linke said the dance center is exploring whether the 12th Avenue site will meet its needs. No one from Velocity could be reached for comment.

Misha Berson: mberson@seattletimes.com